The United Opposition today issued a scathing press statement decrying what it termed as a “descent into lawlessness, repression and political terrorism” under President William Ruto’s administration. Speaking from Nairobi, prominent opposition leaders condemned a wave of human rights violations, abductions, and politically motivated violence, warning that the country is on the brink of anarchy.
In the statement, co-signed by top opposition figures including Hon. Martha Karua, Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka, Rt. Hon. Justin Muturi, Hon. Eugene Wamalwa, Hon. Saitoti Torome, and Hon. Mithika Linturi, the opposition accused state agencies of waging a campaign of terror against dissenting voices.
The most shocking incident cited was the abduction and torture of Juja MP Hon. George Koimburi, who was reportedly kidnapped by unknown assailants and later found severely injured. The opposition says the attack is part of a “chilling trend” of targeting elected leaders and opposition supporters.
The statement also highlighted police brutality during recent political events in Kakamega and Bungoma, where security forces allegedly used live ammunition to disperse unarmed demonstrators protesting government actions, including the controversial takeover of Nzoia Sugar Company.
From Nairobi to Kisumu, and Nyeri to Busia, the opposition accused the state of deploying political hooligans to disrupt meetings, destroy property, and intimidate citizens — often with the support or indifference of law enforcement.
A particularly grave accusation was the alleged murder of two Catholic priests, Fathers John Maina and Aloise Bett, who had hosted opposition leaders. The movement expressed solidarity with the Catholic Church and called for justice.
The United Opposition further called out Safaricom and other telecommunications firms for allegedly enabling illegal surveillance and facilitating abductions, demanding transparency and accountability from private actors.
“The silence of one becomes the silence of all,” the leaders warned, calling on civil society, the international community, and all Kenyan citizens to resist what they described as a return to authoritarian rule.
Among their key demands:
- An immediate end to political violence and extrajudicial actions;
- Accountability from telecom companies allegedly aiding in illegal surveillance;
- Protection of constitutional freedoms and assembly rights;
- Prosecution of individuals behind the violence, regardless of their position.
In a pointed message to President Ruto, the opposition reminded him that crimes against humanity are prosecutable under international law, asserting that immunity does not shield him from future legal consequences.
Calling the situation a national emergency, the United Opposition pledged to continue their resistance, stating, “We are united, resolute, and the voice of a people who refuse to be silenced.”
The bold statement marks a dramatic escalation in Kenya’s political tensions and is likely to draw international attention and scrutiny.
ENDS
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