ODM Senator Fires Back at Kaluma Over BBC Documentary

Migori Senator Eddy Oketch has strongly criticized Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma after Kaluma called for the ban of BBC operations in Kenya over the controversial Blood Parliament documentary.

In a fiery statement issued on Tuesday, April 29, Oketch expressed his disappointment with Kaluma and other ODM leaders who dismissed the BBC investigative report, which exposed alleged police shootings during the parliament invasion of June 25, 2024.

Oketch Defends BBC’s Findings

Oketch reminded ODM leaders of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ODM leader Raila Odinga and President William Ruto, which promised justice and compensation for victims of political violence and an end to extrajudicial killings.

“I am disappointed in Kaluma and others rubbishing the BBC documentary. This is not the spirit of the broad-based government. The MoU demands that we compensate GenZs killed and address extrajudicial killings,” Oketch stated.

He added that acknowledging past mistakes is essential for healing the nation, and running away from the truth only deepens societal wounds.

Senate Took a Stand as National Assembly ‘Fled’

Oketch also pointed out that while the National Assembly members, including Kaluma, fled during the protests, the Senate of Kenya remained and courageously passed a motion demanding investigations into rogue police activities.

Read also:DPP Orders Probe Into BBC Exposé on Extrajudicial Killings During Gen Z Protests

“While the National Assembly ran away, the Senate stood its ground and called for compensation of victims and prosecution of rogue officers,” Oketch emphasized.

Kaluma’s Call to Ban BBC Sparks Controversy

Kaluma had earlier described the BBC documentary as “inciteful” and “twisted,” suggesting that the British broadcaster was playing a dangerous role similar to that which fueled Rwanda’s 1994 genocide.

“Ban the BBC in Kenya. Reckless journalism can destabilize even stable democracies,” Kaluma said in a statement.

However, Oketch cautioned against dismissing credible investigations and urged leaders to focus on finding solutions rather than shielding state excesses.

The Bigger Picture: Why BBC’s Blood Parliament Matters

The Blood Parliament documentary sheds light on a dark chapter in Kenya’s political history, identifying police officers allegedly involved in shooting protesters. Many Kenyans, particularly the youth, continue to demand accountability for these deaths.

As debates continue, it is clear that addressing the root causes of police brutality and government excesses is vital for Kenya’s democracy and stability.

Oketch’s bold stance signals a growing divide within ODM ranks about how best to handle past state violence. The path forward will require honesty, justice, and a genuine commitment to the promises made in the Raila-Ruto agreement.

Stay tuned to The Star for more updates on this developing story.