Treasury and Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary (CS) John Mbadi has condemned violence during demos saying planners of anarchy must face the full force of the law.
Mbadi said that the country will be adversely affected economically if street protests continue.
Speaking Sunday at Magunga Seventh Day Adventist church in Suba South, the CS said armed gangs must not be allowed to roam with impunity.
He claimed that some top opposition leaders were behind the chaos and destruction of property that was witnessed in parts of the country during demonstrations last week.
“We have no problem with the opposition, but they should oppose the government while adhering to the law,” Mr Mbadi said.
He said Kenya could slide into anarchy like Haiti if violent protests continue.
The CS said he was deeply concerned over the attacks on police stations which he said was unprecedented in the country.
“Culprits who do not respect the police will plunge the nation into anarchy and that is what is happening in Haiti. It is absolutely outrageous to storm government offices and more so police stations and courts,” he said.
He said the constitution allows demonstrations and picketing but doesn’t allow the disruptions of normal activities.
He defended President William Ruto’s administration saying it was addressing issues which affect the country.
Mr Mbadi said the law was taking its course with respect to the death of teacher Albert Ojwang adding that the government was committed to ensuring justice prevailed.
He said the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) must ensure any police officer involved in malpractices was brought to book.
“IPOA has done its bit, suspects in Ojwang’s case are now in court. What else is expected the government do? He asked.
He noted that last year’s protests against the finance bill was understandable because the proposed taxes were punitive.
The CS said the finance bill this year took care of the issues Kenyans had raised and no one should complain.
“This time round we engaged the public and captured the imagination of Kenyans, nobody should demonstrate over it,” the CS said.
He said some of the achievements of the government include reforms in sugar, tea and milk sector.
Mbadi disclosed that the national government does not owe the county governments any funds in the 2024-2025 financial year as the last disbursement of Sh30.9 billion was disbursed last week.
By Davis Langat
