‘Time for action’ – MP Kaluma issues demands to police over those who infiltrated Gen Z protests

Six months after the Gen-Z-led protests shook the political class and forced President William Ruto to drop the contentious Finance Bill 2024, Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament George Peter Opondo Kaluma has revived calls for accountability.

In a statement on Sunday, January 19, 2025, MP Peter Kaluma described the mass action as a positive move which was aimed at calling for greater accountability and citizens’ involvement in decision-making.

However, he lamented the noble cause was ruined after individuals with criminal intentions hijacked the protests.

Police investigation

In his statement, the vocal lawmaker affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) added that the law enforcement agencies launched an investigation into the incident.

Kaluma maintained that police needed to take action including arresting and arraigning them for a proper judgement to be delivered.

He argued that six months was enough to bring to book those who ruined the positive Gen-Z protests.

“The police have been investigating those who infiltrated the Gen Z positive action for the past 6 months,” his statement read in part.

“It is now time for action – arrest, prosecute and jail them,” it added.

Ruto’s statement

President William Ruto was forced to respond after the June 2024 protests escalated with some making their way into the Parliament Buildings.

The aftermath saw a section of both houses torched and property destroyed.

In his late-night address of what transpired, the Head of State vowed to crack down on those who infiltrated the protests to criminal gains.

He claimed that some of those who forced their way into Parliament targeted the armoury.

“The invaders in Parliament went straight for the armoury at the mausoleum and the Sergeant at Arms’ office. How did these criminals know about the armoury? There will be investigations into all these incidents,” Ruto stated then.

On extrajudicial killings, the President assured that the government would investigate and account for all deaths that occurred during the protests.

“There will be an explanation on each and every death. I am telling every parent, I have kids like they do and I care. When there are issues in town where criminals can take advantage of situations and create a situation where the police have to use rubber bullets and live bullets,” he stated.

To date, some of the victims are still waiting for answers from the government which compelled Peter Kaluma to demand action.