Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at Kwa Mutonga, Kitui County. Photo Courtesy. 
By Kavinga Titus
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has affirmed the government's commitment to upholding the constitutional freedoms of Kenyans while issuing a stern warning against lawlessness witnessed during recent protests.
Speaking during a development tour of Kitui West at Kwa Mutonga, the Deputy President stated that while Kenyans have the right to express themselves, such rights must not be used as a cover to violate the rights of others.
“The government will not curtail freedoms guaranteed in the Constitution. Citizens are free to speak out, even when they disagree with the government. But in exercising those freedoms, no one should loot, rape, burn property, or cause mayhem. That will not be tolerated,” Kindiki said.
He strongly condemned the acts of violence, destruction of property, and attacks on women that were reported during protests held earlier in the week, saying those behind the chaos will face the full force of the law.
“We will go after every individual who incited or participated in looting, assaulting women, destroying infrastructure, and creating terror in the name of protest. They will be arrested and prosecuted,” he emphasized.
Kindiki lauded residents of Kitui and other counties that maintained peace and order during the unrest, saying their discipline was commendable.
On development, the Deputy President reassured Kitui residents of the government’s commitment to equitable development across the country, regardless of political leanings.
“Some retrogressive leaders misled you that you won’t get development because you didn’t vote for the government. That is a lie. Every Kenyan is a taxpayer and deserves an equal share of development,” he said.
He emphasized that Kitui County, like all other regions, will benefit from key government projects and programs aimed at transforming lives and boosting local economies.
“We will continue investing in this region because the people of Kitui, just like every other Kenyan, deserve roads, water, schools, and better services,” said the DP.
Kindiki concluded by urging residents to continue demanding development and holding leaders accountable, assuring them that the government remains focused on improving the lives of all citizens across the country.
