Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Democratic Movement, has publicly denounced the detention of Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia, accusing the government of selective enforcement of the law.
The arrest followed remarks by Kaguchia that authorities deemed problematic. Kalonzo described the arrest as arbitrary and in violation of constitutional protections.
Freedom of Expression and Equal Justice
While Kalonzo emphasized that incitement is unacceptable from any leader, he underscored that Kenya’s Constitution guarantees freedom of expression to all citizens. He insisted that legal standards must be applied impartially, regardless of political alignment.
- "We do not support incitement from anyone," Kalonzo stated. "Every leader must uphold peace and the rule of law. The Constitution guarantees freedom of expression. The law must be applied fairly, not selectively."
Allegations of Double Standards
Kalonzo pointed to previous incidents involving government officials that have gone unpunished, alleging a double standard in law enforcement:
- He cited a "shoot and kill" directive attributed to the current administration, which targeted young Kenyans, yet no action was taken.
- He referenced tribal insults reportedly made by the UDA Secretary General and a Cabinet Secretary, including derogatory remarks describing a community as "hyenas," which also went without consequences.
"Justice in Kenya cannot depend on whether you are pro-government or in the opposition," Kalonzo said. "If incitement is the standard, apply it to everyone; Mukurweini MP or Cabinet Secretary, it does not matter. Selective justice is not justice. It has no place in our democracy."
