Uhuru: Don't claw back our freedoms as political intolerance grows
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta criticized growing political intolerance and disruptions of opposition rallies in Kenya.
- Kenyatta urged politicians to campaign peacefully and warned that such actions are setting Kenya backward.
- He spoke at a memorial event for the late Vice President Kijana Wamalwa.
Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has strongly condemned the increasing political intolerance and disruptions targeting opposition rallies across the country. Speaking at the 24th anniversary memorial for the late Vice President Kijana Wamalwa, Kenyatta decried the use of disruptive tactics, which he believes are hindering Kenya's progress.
Kenyatta directly addressed the issue of goons allegedly being used to disrupt meetings, urging politicians to conduct their campaigns peacefully. He stated that such actions are regressing the nation, implying a return to less democratic practices. The former president's remarks come amid a period of heightened political activity and occasional clashes between opposing factions.
"He challenged politicians to seek votes in peace," the article notes, highlighting Kenyatta's call for a more civil political discourse. His comments underscore concerns about the health of democratic space in Kenya, particularly regarding the freedom of assembly and expression for political opposition.
Originally published by The Standard. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.