A human rights activist has strongly condemned the growing trend where political leaders mobilize civilians to obstruct anti-corruption efforts by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), warning that such actions threaten the very foundation of law and order in Kenya.
In a firm statement, Eldoret-based activist Kipkorir Ngetich decried the politicization of the recent arrest of Governor George Natembeya, noting that it was part of a broader crackdown on rampant graft within county governments. He expressed deep concern over the open support by seasoned politicians like Hon. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Eugene Wamalwa for demonstrations aimed at shielding suspects from lawful investigations.
"It is extremely unfortunate that some of our leaders — those who aspire to occupy high offices — are now seen backing protests meant to frustrate legal anti-graft efforts," said Ngetich. "How can a truthful leader call on the masses to protect corruption networks that are draining public resources in broad daylight?"
The activist accused these leaders of endangering the country's stability by encouraging civilians to confront law enforcement officers, including recent incidents where EACC vehicles were vandalized during confrontations.
"EACC officers are professionally trained to collect crucial evidence and secure suspects in corruption cases. These officers have the constitutional right to search premises when necessary — without alerting suspects who might tamper with or hide evidence," he said.
Ngetich further demanded that the police arrest and prosecute anyone captured on camera attacking EACC officers or damaging their property. He called such actions “organized crime bordering on terrorism.”
"We cannot afford to breed a lawless society where any government official can be attacked at will. This is dangerous and must be stopped immediately," he stated, urging the police to pursue those involved and charge them accordingly — including with capital offenses where applicable.
He also highlighted the hypocrisy of opposition leaders who once called for stronger anti-graft actions, only to turn around and defend individuals under investigation.
"Kenya cannot move forward if every effort to enforce accountability is politicized. We must learn to differentiate between a lawful operation and political witch-hunts," Ngetich emphasized.
Calling on the public to support anti-corruption bodies and uphold the rule of law, Ngetich warned that shielding suspects through violence and mob justice is a threat to democracy.
"If we allow this generation to normalize attacking government officers, we are cultivating a dangerous culture that could one day plunge this country into civil unrest," he warned.
He urged security agencies to stay alert and proactive in preventing lawlessness, and he called on all Kenyans to respect due process and allow the legal system to address corruption cases as stipulated in the Constitution.
"Let us be patriotic and uphold the institutions that safeguard our nation. Accountability is not a political witch-hunt — it's a constitutional obligation,” Ngetich concluded.
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