Parliament Launches Probe into June 25 Protest Breach, MP Nelson Koech Reveals

Belgut Member of Parliament (MP) Nelson Koech has confirmed that Parliament is in the early stages of investigating the breach that occurred during the nationwide protests on June 25. This breach, which saw demonstrators gain access to parliamentary grounds, has prompted a comprehensive response involving both parliamentary security and the National Police Service.

Speaking on Citizen TV’s Daybreak show, Koech outlined that the investigation is still in its formative stage. The focus is currently on gathering evidence through CCTV footage and testimonies from individuals who witnessed the breach. Koech emphasized that while there has not yet been a full-scale probe by Parliament, the initiation of this evidence-gathering process marks a crucial first step.

Koech also addressed concerns about the security loopholes that might have contributed to the breach. He assured the public that there is an ongoing effort to identify these weaknesses and ensure that such incidents do not recur. He expressed confidence in President William Ruto’s commitment to addressing the situation thoroughly and holding accountable those responsible for the breach, including any officers who might have been complicit.

The breach on June 25, which resulted in unarmed peaceful protesters being shot outside the parliamentary buildings, has drawn significant criticism and raised questions about the government’s response. The lack of immediate action in the aftermath of the breach has fueled public skepticism and demands for accountability. Koech stressed the need for responsible agencies to provide explanations regarding the incident and address the concerns raised by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) about the police’s handling of the situation.

President Ruto has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the breach and the subsequent violence. He has stated that his administration will track down those responsible for the invasion and the destruction of key government buildings, including the Parliament, the Judiciary, and Nairobi County Government offices. Ruto has suggested that the breach might have been an attempt to target the armoury and the mausoleum within the Parliament complex.

The June 25 protests have not only highlighted the deep-seated issues within the country’s political and security systems but also exposed vulnerabilities in the protection of key government institutions. The government’s response to these events will be closely scrutinized, with many calling for a transparent and comprehensive investigation that addresses both the immediate actions of the protesters and the systemic failures that allowed the breach to occur.

As the investigation progresses, MPs and the public alike will be watching closely to see what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and to ensure that justice is served for those affected by the violence. The outcomes of this probe could have far-reaching implications for both parliamentary security protocols and the broader political landscape in Kenya.