MP ICHUNG'WAH SIDES THE POLICE AMIDST KENYAN - POLICE HOSTILITY

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has called on Kenyans to uphold respect for law enforcement officers, and avoid provoking them even as concerns over police misconduct continue to spark public outcry.

Addressing Parliament , the Kikuyu MP urged demonstrators to exercise restraint and avoid stereotyping the actions of individual officers. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order, particularly during protests demanding accountability.

“We must honour and respect our police officers. Not every one of them has acted unlawfully. While a few may have stepped out of line, it is unjust to condemn the entire police service based on isolated cases,” Ichung’wah said.

He cautioned against vigilante-style responses from the public and reminded citizens that legal avenues exist for dealing with rogue officers.

“If any officer has broken the law, let them be held accountable through due process. That, however, does not give anyone the right to stir up violence or provoke our officers,” he added.

Ichung’wah highlighted the essential role police play in preserving national stability, pointing out the risks of disorder in their absence.

“If you truly want to see the value of the police, imagine our streets without them. Whether it’s demonstrators, looters, or organised gangs, chaos would prevail without the presence of security forces.”

He also took issue with individuals who antagonize police officers during protests. Reacting to a viral video showing a woman heckling a female officer, Ichung’wah said such actions only escalate tensions.

“Let’s not provoke or wave our fists at officers. Not every one of them will stay calm under provocation. We must not push them into confrontations.”

His remarks also came in reference to a clip from Nakuru showing a man wielding a panga as officers tried to disperse demonstrators.

While acknowledging the constitutional right to protest, Ichung’wah stressed that it must be conducted responsibly.

“Let us express ourselves peacefully and respectfully. Demonstrations should not endanger businesses or lead to violence. Already, many hardworking traders in the CBD have suffered losses.”

The Majority Leader also questioned the motivations behind some of the protest organisers, accusing them of politicizing the recent death of teacher Albert Ojwang.

“There are individuals fueling unrest without even expressing condolences to the family in Homa Bay. Their agenda is not justice—it’s disruption,” he said.

Ichung'wah's remarks diffuse at a moment when Kenyans are moaning an increase in police brutality with the recent shooting of an unarmed mask hawker hitting the headlines.