In a powerful critique of President William Ruto’s administration, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called for international intervention in what he describes as severe human rights abuses in Kenya. Addressing a crowd at a burial ceremony in Mwingi West on Friday, Kalonzo accused the Ruto administration of extrajudicial killings, harassment of political figures, and criminalizing peaceful demonstrations led by the youth.
Kalonzo’s remarks come amidst ongoing unrest in Kenya, where the government has faced allegations of violently suppressing demonstrations and unlawfully targeting individuals. Central to his criticism is the recent raid on businessman Jimi Wanjigi’s home. Wanjigi, a prominent critic of the administration, has faced heightened scrutiny and alleged harassment, which Kalonzo believes warrants intervention from the international community.
“The harassment of Jimi Wanjigi is not just an isolated incident but a symptom of a larger issue,” Kalonzo asserted. “Even with the presence of the US Under Secretary in Kenya, the government continues to target him. They raid his home, destroy CCTV footage, and plant teargas—all without a court order. This kind of behavior is unacceptable and calls for international intervention.”
Kalonzo’s call for the U.S. to intervene highlights the growing tension between Kenya’s government and its critics. He urged the US to appeal to Kenya Kwanza, the ruling coalition, to cease its actions against Wanjigi. This plea underscores the broader concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the rule of law in Kenya.
The Wiper party leader also voiced strong support for the Gen Zs, who have been at the forefront of recent protests demanding better governance. According to Kalonzo, the administration’s efforts to criminalize these peaceful demonstrations are a direct attack on constitutional rights. “You cannot criminalize peaceful demonstrations where young people are advocating for their future. The church and all Kenyans should pray for our country and support these young people who are fighting for a better Kenya.”
Kalonzo’s sentiments were echoed by his political ally, Eugene Wamalwa of the DAP-Kenya party. Wamalwa highlighted the alarming number of extrajudicial killings reported in the country, with over 200 lives lost, most of them being youths. He stressed that the right to demonstrate, as enshrined in Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, should be upheld and not violated by the state.
The escalating tension reached a peak on Thursday when police raided Wanjigi’s residence in Muthaiga. The raid was reportedly linked to accusations that Wanjigi was financing the Nane Nane demonstrations, which have been critical of the administration. Following the raid, the Acting Police Inspector General ordered Wanjigi to surrender at the nearest police station. However, Wanjigi sought court intervention, which resulted in a temporary injunction barring his arrest.
As Kenya grapples with these contentious issues, Kalonzo’s calls for unity and international support reflect a growing frustration among opposition leaders and civil society groups. With the possibility of ODM leader Raila Odinga’s departure from the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition, some believe this shift could alter the political landscape in Kenya.
In summary, Kalonzo Musyoka’s recent statements underscore a deepening crisis in Kenya’s political and human rights environment. His call for U.S. intervention and support for peaceful demonstrations signal a broader plea for international oversight and justice in addressing the reported abuses and fostering a more democratic and accountable governance framework.
