In a startling revelation, insiders have disclosed that the police, led by Inspector General Japheth Koome, were unprepared for the anti-finance bill protests that erupted nationwide. The chaos that unfolded across 35 counties on Tuesday has laid bare the serious lapses in Kenya’s security apparatus.
The unrest, which saw angry citizens storm Parliament buildings and set parts of the complex ablaze, underscored the lack of a comprehensive strategy to manage the demonstrations. The violent protests forced legislators to seek refuge in Bunge Towers before being evacuated to safety.
Protesters who breached the Parliament’s defenses caused extensive damage to the August House, prompting President William Ruto to condemn their actions as ‘treasonous’. The President’s strong words came in the wake of a tragedy that saw at least ten lives lost, including a doctor who was aiding a gunshot victim and a journalist covering the National Assembly’s proceedings. Amnesty International reported 31 injuries, with 13 individuals sustaining bullet wounds.
Investigations by the Daily Nation revealed that by Saturday night, even after Inspector-General Koome and other security chiefs had briefed President Ruto on the escalating situation, the government had yet to devise a strategy to manage the protests. This delay in response highlighted a critical failure in the coordination and preparedness of the security forces.
The protests, which were sparked by widespread discontent over the proposed finance bill, quickly escalated into a nationwide crisis. The bill, seen by many as an unfair burden on already struggling citizens, ignited anger and frustration, leading to the mass mobilization of demonstrators.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the protests, questions are being raised about the readiness of the police and other security agencies to handle such large-scale unrest. The lack of a clear plan to address the situation not only endangered lives but also resulted in significant damage to public property and institutions.
The events of Tuesday serve as a stark reminder of the need for a robust and proactive approach to managing public demonstrations and ensuring the safety of both citizens and property. As investigations continue, the government faces mounting pressure to address the gaps in its security strategy and prevent future occurrences of such devastating unrest.
