'Wednesday protests were cover for a coup attempt,' claims Murkomen

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has declared that the Wednesday, June 25, protests were a well-orchestrated attempt to overthrow the government.

"Yesterday, police foiled an attempted coup. The demos had nothing to do with protests or freedom of expression. It was an unconstitutional attempt to change the government of the day,” he said while delivering a security update at the steps of Harambee House. 

The CS described the chaos as an act of terrorism, claiming it was politically instigated, funded, and executed with precision.

“We did not witness protests. What we saw yesterday were acts of terrorism. It was deliberate and funded,” he added.

Murkomen further confirmed that at least 10 people were killed and over 400 injured, including 300 police officers. Nine police stations were attacked, five of them torched, while 88 police vehicles, 28 government cars, and 65 private vehicles, including a school bus, were destroyed.

“National and county government offices were attacked, and businesses worth billions of shillings were looted or destroyed,” he said, adding that road, railway, and water infrastructure were also vandalised.

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According to Murkomen, the organisers were reportedly targeting politicians and civilians allied to the government.

Among them were the homes and businesses of leaders like Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah, Molo MP Kimani Kuria, Mathira MP Eric Wa Mumbi, Kieni MP Njoroge Wainaina, Mbeere North MP Bernard Muriuki, and Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri.

Murkomen also alleged that some ambulances were used to ferry goons under the guise of medical emergencies.

He further claimed that vehicles were spotted distributing money to protesters on various streets, including Muindi Mbingu.

“We have enough evidence to apprehend them, including their financiers. Vehicles were bringing money and giving it to protesters in different streets, including Muindi Mbingu.” 

According to him, the police tried to contain the situation, adding that no officer committed any excesses despite 16 people reportedly killed in the protests. 

And that any officer accused of brutality during yesterday's protests will receive the government's full support.

Murkomen further urged the Judiciary to reflect on its role in safeguarding the country and avoid giving suspects lenient bail terms.

"The judiciary has an important responsibility to protect Kenyans. Some of the protesters are given very favourable bail terms or, at times, freed on free bond. It is time for the Judiciary to decide if they want a country of law and order or anarchy.”

Echoing similar remarks, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja warned those who caused mayhem that the police would be coming for them. 

Their statements follow yesterday’s countrywide demonstrations, which were supposed to be a commemoration of those killed in last year’s protests, but turned ugly.