Tuesday Protests Hijacked by Dangerous Criminals – CS Kindiki

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning about more planned chaos and looting during the upcoming protests on Thursday and Sunday this week. He assured that these disruptions will be firmly dealt with.

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During Tuesday’s protests against the now-shelved Finance Bill 2024, traders in parts of Nairobi banded together to protect their businesses from looters disguised as protesters.

In a statement, CS Kindiki emphasized that the reign of terror against Kenyans and the impunity of dangerous criminal gangs must end at all costs.

“The government is determined to stop criminals who seek to terrorize the public and harm Kenya, despite attempts to politicize crime,” he stated.

CS Kindiki expressed regret over the unprecedented riots on Tuesday, June 25, which broke out in Nairobi and several other cities in Kenya. These riots resulted in the loss of lives, destruction, or looting of property worth billions of shillings, and an attempt to burn down Parliament Buildings.

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He acknowledged that the protests, which were initially a democratic expression of public disapproval of the Finance Bill 2024, had led to the termination of the Bill. However, he condemned the violent turn the protests took, with criminal gangs exploiting the situation to commit arson, disrupt public order, obstruct transport, and terrorize the public.

President William Ruto recently reported that Sh2 billion worth of property and goods had been lost since the demonstrations began.

Defending the police, CS Kindiki commended law enforcement officers for acting professionally and with restraint in highly provocative situations during the violent riots. He assured that any allegations of unlawful conduct by officers would be investigated, and appropriate action would be taken.

Prof Kindiki also emphasized that security agencies remain vigilant to intercept and thwart any harm to the public and attempts to attack critical infrastructure and emblems of Kenya’s sovereignty.

“Upon completion of the ongoing analysis of evidence, the government assures the public that the planners, perpetrators, and financiers of large-scale arson, violent robbery, and other heinous crimes will be brought to justice,” he said.

His remarks come as Kenyans expressed concern over police conduct during the anti-government protests, now in their third week. Tuesday’s protests, which took place in several counties, resulted in widespread destruction of property and looting, leaving business owners with significant losses.

During a meeting with bishops from the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA), President Ruto vowed to deal decisively with the “thugs” who invaded and torched Parliament buildings during the previous week’s protests. He asserted that those responsible for the violence were criminals who exploited a peaceful protest against the Finance Bill and must face the full force of the law.

“Those who set fire to Parliament are not our children, they are criminals, and we will look for them. They will not get away; you cannot destroy public property,” Ruto stated.

Demos Must End by 6:30 PM: Kindiki’s Demands to Protesters Ahead of Tuesday Demonstrations

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has issued warnings and demands to Kenyans planning to protest on Tuesday against the Finance Bill 2024.

Speaking on Monday, CS Kindiki emphasized that protesters must respect the rights of non-protesters and adhere to legal limitations.

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“Kenyans have the right to demonstrate, but they must ensure that their actions do not infringe on the rights and freedoms of others,” he stated.

Kindiki outlined several key requirements for the demonstrations:

  • Peaceful and Unarmed: Protesters must remain peaceful and unarmed during the protests.
  • No Interference with Transportation: They must not disrupt road, rail, sea, or air transport.
  • Non-Violence: Demonstrators must engage without promoting violence or riots.
  • Respect for Public Order: All actions must comply with the rule of law and public order.

The CS emphasized that non-protesters with opposing views must also abide by the law. He assured that security agencies will remain neutral but firm in enforcing the rule of law.

Kindiki reiterated that Kenyans are free to exercise their constitutional rights to demonstrate, provided they stay within legal boundaries. He urged demonstrators to avoid breaching public order, intimidating, harassing, or inconveniencing other citizens.

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Protesters are required to notify the police of their intention to demonstrate, including the routes they plan to take and the timings of their activities. This is to ensure proper escort and maintenance of law and order.

The CS specified that demonstrations should end by sunset, around 6:30 PM. He warned protesters not to provoke, injure, or obstruct police officers or other Kenyans.

“Follow the guidance of police officers for protection and carry out your activities in an orderly manner,” Kindiki concluded.

CS Kithure Kindiki announces that Monday, June 17 will be a public holiday

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki has announced that Monday, June 17 will be a public holiday to celebrate Eid al-Adha.

Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah and his willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail. This Feast of Sacrifice is one of the two most important holidays in Islam.

The holiday holds particular significance as it marks the conclusion of the annual Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, which takes place in the final month of the lunar Islamic calendar.

Kenyan Passport Wait Times Slashed To 21 Days

The Kenyan government has significantly improved passport processing times, according to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.

Backlog Cleared, New Wait Times Announced

In a statement on May 13th, Kindiki announced the successful clearing of a massive passport backlog that had accumulated between June 2021 and March 2024. This backlog of 724,000 passports has now been printed, with over 684,500 already collected by applicants.

More importantly, Kindiki revealed a dramatic reduction in wait times for new applicants. “Going forward,” he declared, “all new applicants will receive their passports within 21 days from the date of application.” Urgent cases will be processed even faster, receiving their passports immediately.

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Overcoming Challenges

Kindiki acknowledged the various challenges that had contributed to the backlog. These included securing funding, settling debts with suppliers, addressing corruption, and acquiring new high-capacity printing equipment.

Focus on Efficiency and Collection

With the backlog cleared, the focus now shifts to expediting the collection of the remaining uncollected passports and ensuring long-term efficiency. Kindiki emphasized the need for improvements in archival, record management, registry, and information technology management.

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Further Wait Time Reductions Expected

Kindiki also hinted at plans for further reductions in processing times, outlining a specific timeline but withholding the details for now. This suggests a commitment to ongoing improvements in passport services for Kenyans.

Kithure Kindiki Claims Strict Measures On Curbing Illicit Brews Won’t Be Lifted

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki emphasizes the unwavering stance against illicit substances, declaring the recently announced actions irreversible.

However, Public Service CS Moses Kuria has raised concerns. He argues the current approach lacks a nuanced strategy and could negatively impact legitimate businesses.

Kuria Proposes “Soft Messaging”- He advocates for a multi-pronged approach, including legislative changes. Kuria believes a focus on the root cause – the taxation system – is crucial.

His Argument

High production taxes incentivize manufacturers to evade them or resort to illegal ingredients.

Kuria proposes eliminating a tax credit currently claimed by producers who haven’t paid the initial tax.

He suggests this reform would eliminate the unintended subsidization of illicit brews.

Alternatively, Moses  Kuria proposes a “softer approach” with revised legislation, emphasizing it as a long-term solution compared to temporary bar closures.

Kenyans invited to give opinions about Ruto regime intended hiking of passport and ID fees

Kenyans have until December 8, 2023, to share their opinions on the proposed changes to passport and ID fees.

The public participation process was initiated by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki and submissions can be made either in person or electronically.

As part of the proposed changes, the cost of obtaining a new ID card will be reduced to Sh300 from the previously proposed Sh1,000.

Kenyans who are unable to afford the new ID fee will have the cost covered by the government.

The cost of replacing a lost ID card will also be reduced to Sh1,000 from the previously proposed Sh2,000.

The fees for changing ID card particulars and obtaining Identification Reports have been increased to Sh1,000 and Sh1,000 respectively.

The fees for Civil Servant cards and Staff badges have also been increased to Sh1,000 each.

The proposed charges for passports remain unchanged.

The cost of birth and death certificates has been increased to Sh200 from the previous Sh50.

The public is encouraged to submit their feedback on the proposed changes by December 8, 2023.

Courts stop Kindiki from hiking costs of Kenyan identification documents

A Kenyan court has stopped the government from implementing new charges for ID cards and passports. The order came after a surgeon challenged the charges, saying they were unfair and unaffordable for many Kenyans.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi of the High Court in Nairobi issued the order on November 9, following a petition by Dr. Magare Gikenyi. Gikenyi had asked the court to block the new charges, which were announced by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki on November 6.

Under the new charges, first-time applicants for ID cards would have to pay Sh1,000, while those replacing lost cards would have to pay Sh2,000. This is a 20-fold increase from the previous fee of Sh100.

Gikenyi argued in his petition that the new charges were “capricious and out of reach of many ordinary citizens.” He also said that the government had introduced the charges without any public consultation.

Justice Mugambi agreed with Gikenyi and issued a conservatory order suspending the new charges pending the hearing and determination of the petition. The court directed that the government be served with the order within three days and set the matter for mention on November 29 for further directions.

This is a significant victory for Kenyans, as ID cards and passports are essential documents for accessing government services, voting, and traveling. The new charges would have made it difficult for many Kenyans to obtain these documents.

Kithure Kindiki Declares Monday 13th A Public Holiday For Kenyans To Plant Trees

In a significant step towards environmental conservation, Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, has officially declared Monday, November 13, 2023, a public holiday dedicated to nationwide tree planting.

This decision aligns with the government’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, a crucial initiative aimed at combating climate change and restoring Kenya’s natural ecosystems.

As part of this initiative, a designated national tree planting ceremony will be held under the leadership of President William Samoei Ruto, while Cabinet Secretaries and Governors will oversee tree planting activities in all 47 counties, encouraging active participation from Kenyan citizens and the general public.

This decision stems from a Cabinet meeting held on November 3rd, where the designation of a special working day for tree planting was unanimously agreed upon. This move underscores the government’s recognition of the urgency of addressing climate change and its commitment to fulfilling the 15 billion tree pledge.

Each Cabinet Secretary will be responsible for adopting at least two counties and providing leadership in the tree planting initiative. This decentralized approach ensures that the campaign reaches every corner of the country, maximizing its impact on Kenya’s forest cover and overall environmental health.

The government’s comprehensive tree planting strategy also includes the distribution of tree seedlings through chiefs, aiming to accelerate tree-growing activities across the nation. This aggressive campaign targets an increase of five billion trees in the country’s forest cover, a significant step towards restoring and preserving Kenya’s precious natural resources.

President Ruto’s unwavering dedication to environmental conservation has garnered recognition from both local and international leaders. King Charles III, a renowned advocate for environmental protection, has expressed admiration for President Ruto’s ambitious tree-planting initiative, acknowledging its potential to make a lasting positive impact on the planet.

Kenya’s decision to declare a public holiday for tree planting sets a powerful precedent for other nations to follow, demonstrating the importance of prioritizing environmental restoration and sustainability as we strive for a healthier and more resilient future.

Kenyan Government Reveals The Kenyans behind Worldcoin

The Kenyan government has revealed new details about Worldcoin, a company that has been collecting eye scans from Kenyans in exchange for cryptocurrency tokens.

The government has said that Worldcoin is not a legal entity in Kenya and that it has not been authorized to operate in the country. The government has also said that it is investigating the source of the money that Worldcoin is using to pay participants.

The government has identified two Kenyans who are working for Worldcoin: Emmanuel Otieno and Rael Mwende. Otieno is the company’s operations manager and Mwende is the country manager. The government has also identified a foreign national, Piotr Piwowarczyk, who is associated with Worldcoin.

The government has said that it is investigating the legitimacy and legality of Worldcoin’s operations, the security and protection of the data that is being collected, and the intended use of the data.

The government has also said that it is investigating the source of the money that Worldcoin is using to pay participants.

The government’s investigation into Worldcoin is ongoing.

Uhuru son targeted by Ruto regime moves to court over gun licenses

The High Court received a plea from hn Jomo Kenyatta, the son of former president Uhuru Kenyatta, contesting the government’s decision to withdraw his firearms license.

John J. Kenyatta, the son of former president Uhuru Kenyatta, has pleaded with the Milimani Law Courts to get involved in an urgent issue and prevent the state from revoking his gun license.

He begs that when the Chief Licensing Officer, the Firearms Licensing Board, and the Attorney General apply for his license, “the due process set out in the Firearms Act” be adhered to.

In court papers, he argues that the action to cancel his gun license is an infraction of section 5(8) of the Guns Act. He asserts this via attorney Fred Ngatia.

He claims that despite having a license, he has not been informed of the reasons for the impending revocation.

Police ordered that Jomo surrender his weapons on July 21, but no justification was given, according to Jomo.

When Jomo questioned the offices about the possible causes of the sudden demand for his weaponry, they pretended not to know.

He pleaded with the court to get involved because he is worried about possible strong-arm techniques being used.

Despite having a license, he contends that he has not been told of the reasons for the planned revocation.

“The grounds upon which a firearm license can be revoked are provided in section 5(7) of the Firearms Act, which when read with section 7 (2) (a) (v) of the fair administrative action act, cannot be invoked without being afforded an opportunity to be heard,”

Jomo claimed that his constitutional rights would be violated unless his application was promptly admitted for a hearing and the requested orders were granted.

His license is valid until April 27, 2024, per court records.

The case has not yet been heard.

Interior CS Kithure Kindiki announced on Friday that 23 firearms had been found in three homes in Karen, Nairobi, as a result of an operation that had been started after it was determined that the weapons used in the demonstrations had been provided by civilian gun owners.

“Today afternoon, an operation has been going on targeting three homesteads within the Karen area where a total of 23 firearms, some of which are suspected to have been used in illegal activities are kept,”

Former president Uhuru Kenyatta has since been in public to defend his family from the attack, daring the state to confront him rather than go after his family.

Uhuru swore he would protect his family at any costs.

Interior CS Kindiki Challenges Opposition To Stage Anti-Government Protests

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has challenged the opposition to stage anti-government protests on Wednesday.

Kindiki said that the security agencies will be on high alert to deal with any lawbreakers. He said that the government will not tolerate criminality in the name of peaceful protests.

Kindiki said that the ministry had given the opposition an opportunity to hold peaceful demonstrations, but that this opportunity had been abused. He said that a lot of damage, bloodshed, and destruction had been caused by the protests.

Kindiki called on the opposition to resolve their differences amicably and in a civil way. He said that the government is committed to ensuring the safety of all Kenyans.

Kindiki also warned elected officials that they should not use their position to hide from the law. He said that the security agencies will deal with anyone who breaks the law, regardless of their political affiliation.

Kindiki’s comments come after the opposition announced plans to hold anti-government protests on Wednesday. The protests are being organized to protest the government’s handling of the economy and its failure to address the rising cost of living.

The government has been criticized for its heavy-handed response to previous protests. In July, police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters who were demonstrating against the government’s handling of the economy.

It remains to be seen how the government will respond to the opposition’s planned protests on Wednesday. However, Kindiki’s comments suggest that the government is prepared to crack down on any lawbreakers.

Miguna Miguna Challenges Interior CS Kithure Kindiki over Maandamano

Lawyer Miguna Miguna has challenged Interior CS Kithure Kindiki to fulfill his threats to punish those involved in the destruction of property and looting that accompanied Wednesday’s countrywide protests.

Miguna said that Kindiki should not make threats that he is unable or unwilling to carry out, as this would make him a laughingstock.

“If you fail to carry out your latest threat, you will become the butt of Kenya’s national jokes,” Miguna said.

Kindiki had blamed planners of Azimio protests for the wanton destruction of property and looting that accompanied Wednesday’s protests. He said that the government had mobilized all law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute those involved.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga called for the protests to mount pressure on the Kenya Kwanza government over what he termed as its deliberate adoption of policies that are aimed at punishing Kenyans.

The ODM leader later called off a rally he had planned to hold at the Kamukunji grounds citing intelligence reports that police planned to use live ammunition on protesters.

At least nine people were killed during the protests.

Miguna said that Kindiki’s threats were a clear attempt to intimidate and silence those who are opposed to the government. He urged Kenyans to stand up to the government and demand their rights.

“We will not be intimidated by the government’s threats,” Miguna said. “We will continue to fight for our rights, no matter what.”

It remains to be seen whether Kindiki will be able to fulfill his threats. However, Miguna’s challenge has put the CS on the spot and made it clear that the government’s actions will be closely scrutinized.

Interior CS Kindiki Urges Kenyans to Participate in Task Force Sessions

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenyans to participate actively in the upcoming task force sessions established by President William Ruto.

The task force, which was formed in response to the Shakahola massacre, aims to formulate regulations for church registration, combat religious extremism, and prevent future tragedies.

Kindiki made the call during a church service in Kirinyaga on Sunday. He said that the task force’s work is urgent and that Kenyans need to come together to offer their insights.

“The task force will begin its sittings tomorrow. I urge you all to turn up and give your views,” he said.

The task force is expected to hold public hearings in all 47 counties. It will also meet with religious leaders, security officials, and other stakeholders.

The task force is expected to submit its report to the President within 60 days.

The Shakahola massacre was a horrific event that claimed the lives of 242 people. It is important that we learn from this tragedy and take steps to prevent it from happening again.

The task force is a critical part of this effort. I urge all Kenyans to participate in its work and help us build a safer and more peaceful country.

Here are some of the ways you can participate in the task force sessions:

Your participation is important. Together, we can make a difference.

Foreigners Among Victims of Shakahola Massacre

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has said that some of the victims of the “Shakahola massacre” were foreigners from neighboring countries.

Appearing before the Ad hoc Committee on the Proliferation of Religious Organizations on Friday, the CS said preliminary investigations show that some of the victims traveled from neighboring countries to join Pastor Paul Mackenzie’s church.

Kindiki was quick to point out that locals avoided Mackenzie’s church after learning of his wayward ways.

“At the beginning, most of his followers were locals but after learning of his antics, many of them left,” he said.

The CS said the majority of the victims were from western, Northern Kenya, Eastern, Nyanza and some parts of Coast.

Some 241 bodies have so far been exhumed from shallow graves in the forest since the horrific cultic occurrences came to light on April 14.

Autopsies on the first 112 bodies showed that most of the victims died of starvation.

Some victims, including children, were strangled, beaten, or suffocated, the head of forensic operations, Johansen Oduor, said two weeks ago.

Police have so far arrested 39 people and rescued 91 others from the forest.

The Shakahola massacre is one of the most horrific crimes in Kenya’s recent history. It is a reminder of the dangers of religious extremism and the importance of vigilance against cults and other forms of harmful religious practices.

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