Machakos Governor Dr Alfred Mutua has called for action to be taken against leaders whose followers engage in violence.
Addressing members of the press on Wednesday afternoon a day after eight legislators were detained for four days including Machakos senator Johnston Muthama the governor called for action to be taken on anyone who incites or uses hate speech regardless of the political faction they belong to.
”All citizens and especially leaders, should be held to account and strong action taken, when they engage in hate speech and incitement, regardless of the political persuasion they come from. The law has to take its course without fear or favor.”
He has further called on the leaders whose supporters have been involved in acts of violence to be held accountable.
”It is interesting to note that not a single leader whose followers have been throwing stones, carrying crude weapons, burning tires and blocking roads has publicly issued a statement telling his or her followers to desist from the violent acts. It can, therefore, be deduced that the silence of leaders to condemn violent action by their supporters means that the leaders support these violent acts and may be the ones organising and funding them. These leaders only condemn the police and not their violent followers. This is hypocritical behaviour.” he said.
The governor has also called upon the Inspector General of Police and other relevant bodies to take necessary action to instill discipline in the behavior of all leaders and anyone using social media to spread hate.
“No one should be spared. “Eneza chuki na ghasia uone”, should be the motto.” “We have to safeguard the peace we enjoy in this country,” he added.
Earlier today the governor made changes to the water department where 38 officials were interdicted and suspended for engaging in malpractices such as theft of fuel and receiving and soliciting for bribes.