Deputy President vows action against those behind violent June 25 protest, warns no one will be spared
Kitui – Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has declared that violent attacks on police stations, theft of firearms, and destruction of government property during the June 25 protests amount to acts of terrorism. He warned that individuals involved in orchestrating or funding the chaos would face full legal consequences.
“If you are involved in these criminal and terror activities, we are coming for you,” Kindiki said. “We will not wait for more deaths and destruction. We will act.”
Kindiki made the statement on Friday during a public event in Kanyange, Kitui County, where he oversaw the empowerment of women, youth groups, and small-scale traders. His remarks followed a week of deadly protests that left at least 16 civilians dead and over 400 injured. Interior Ministry officials said more than 300 police officers also sustained injuries during the clashes.
According to official reports, nine police stations were attacked. Five were torched—including Dagoretti, Molo, and Ol Kalou. Authorities confirmed that five firearms were stolen from Dagoretti Police Post, and four more were destroyed at Gachui Police Post.
Kindiki said the demonstrations, which began as peaceful calls for accountability by young Kenyans, were overtaken by criminal groups. “We cannot allow Kenya to go to the dogs while we laugh and watch,” he said.
The Deputy President pointed to the targeted attacks on state installations as coordinated efforts to destabilize the government.
“This is no longer a laughing matter. We are willing to be politically unpopular if that means saving Kenya’s security and future,” he said.
Kindiki drew parallels to past crises, referencing the failed 1982 coup and the 2007–2008 post-election violence. He emphasized the devastating impact of those events and warned the country could not afford a repeat.
“It didn’t take long to regain control from the coup plotters, but the loss of life and property was irreversible. We still live with the pain,” he stated.
While affirming respect for the Constitution and the rights it guarantees, Kindiki clarified that violence in the name of protest would not be tolerated.
“We won’t interfere with freedoms. But we won’t allow anyone to attack police posts or steal weapons and claim they’re exercising their rights,” he said.
During the event, Kindiki also promoted the government’s ongoing economic empowerment program, saying it aims to improve livelihoods and foster self-reliance. He noted the government’s commitment to equitable development across all regions.
“In Ukambani, people pay taxes. That means they are entitled to development just like any other part of the country,” he said.
Kindiki has recently led empowerment initiatives in Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui counties. He said the programs will continue regardless of election cycles, emphasizing that citizens deserve long-term support not handouts.
As the government continues investigations into the planning and funding of the June 25 unrest, the Deputy President reiterated that national security would not be compromised.
“This will not happen again. I can assure you, it won’t recur,” he said.
