Murkomen Slams LSK President Faith Odhiambo for Defending Protesters Charged Under Terror Laws
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has accused Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo of siding with individuals he described as “criminals” amid the ongoing wave of arrests and prosecutions of protesters.
Murkomen: Odhiambo Acting Like a Judge
Speaking on Wednesday, July 23, Murkomen criticised Odhiambo for her recent remarks challenging the government’s use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) against arrested protesters. He accused her of arrogating judicial powers and undermining the work of security agencies.
“I saw the interview with the LSK president and was surprised that she was arrogating herself the position of a judge,” Murkomen said. “We have presented evidence to court. How did she assess that it was not watertight or that the threshold was not met? That is for the courts to determine.”
Odhiambo’s Criticism of Government Charges
Earlier, Odhiambo had expressed concerns over charging protesters under terrorism laws, arguing there was no irrefutable evidence of intent to cause terror.
“Protesters should not be charged with terrorism. The investigating agencies must show and prove that there was a clear intent to cause terrorism,” Odhiambo stated.
Her remarks came after several protesters were arraigned under POTA for alleged acts of arson and destruction during recent demonstrations.
Murkomen Defends Government’s Actions
In his response, Murkomen maintained that the state had credible evidence linking the suspects to violent acts that fit POTA’s definition of terrorism.
“The law is very clear. If you are committing acts meant to create fear, destroy property, burn shops or police stations using petrol bombs, those are acts of terrorism as defined by POTA,” Murkomen argued.
Calls for LSK to Support Victims
The Interior CS further urged the LSK to stand with victims of violence instead of defending suspects.
“The LSK should also be speaking up for the victims – Kenyans whose businesses were looted and burned, the police stations that were attacked. Not just the suspects,” Murkomen said.
He accused Odhiambo of discouraging accountability and emboldening criminal elements that he claimed had hijacked otherwise peaceful protests.
“If you truly care about peaceful protests, support efforts to remove the criminals hijacking them. Instead, the LSK appears more interested in defending them,” Murkomen added.
Protests and Rising Tensions
The exchanges come amid heightened tensions across Kenya following protests over the controversial Finance Bill. The demonstrations, initially peaceful, have seen outbreaks of violence, prompting a crackdown by security agencies and sparking debate over civil liberties and the state’s response.
For more updates on this developing story and Kenyan politics, visit TheStar.co.ke Politics.
