Ruto Camp Rattled Over Govt Directives on Campaign Rallies

Speaking on Wednesday, October 7, moments after Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua’s press conference, Senator Kipchumba Murkomen dismissed the advisory claiming that National Security Advisory Committee (NSAC) which formulated the directives was not recognised by the constitution. 

“There is no such legal/constitutional body known as National Security Advisory Committee. Assuming there was one, then it would only advise the National Security Council (NSC). NSC cannot obviously meet because of internal fights among its members. Stop playing politics with our security,” the senator tweeted.

Murkomen was referring to the NSC which is the highest security organ in the country, which also includes DP Ruto. 

However, political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi emphasised the need to control the political temperatures in the country, arguing that if not managed now, the 2022 General Elections would be disastrous. 

Jubilee Deputy Party Secretary General Caleb Kositany who is also an ally of the DP claimed that the orders were meant to curtail media freedoms. 

He was referring to the directive that all media outlets would henceforth be held accountable for publishing or broadcasting content intended to incite feelings of contempt, violence or discrimination.

The DP and his allies have been accusing their rivals of using security apparatus to frustrate them.

Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa cautioned that the highly placed individuals would be personally liable for any eventuality.

While listing the outcomes of the NSAC meeting, Kinyua stated that all social media users would be held liable for content appearing on their profiles pursuant to the National Cohesion and Integration Act.

Murkomen dismissed the order, stating that the government should focus its efforts on important areas, and not on the social media. 

The greatest threat to our national security is not social media or public/political gatherings. The greatest threat to our national security is deceit, wrangles and fights at the highest level of government and governing party,” he tweeted. 

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission has also cautioned against the escalating political environment in Kenya. 

The commission has appealed to the country’s senior most leaders to demonstrate visible and positive leadership by persuading their rank and file and their supporters to hold onto peaceful, cohesive and united Kenya.

Jubilee Party deputy Secretary-General Caleb Kositany