Karua Slams Military Chief Over ‘Ruto Must Go’ Remarks in Fiery Rebuke
People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has strongly criticized Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri, accusing him of undermining constitutional principles after he issued a warning against the ‘Ruto must go’ campaign. She called on Parliament to summon military leadership over what she termed as an attempt to restrict political freedoms.
Karua expressed deep concern that the head of an institution known for discipline had entered the political arena and attempted to limit citizens’ right to express their opinions. She emphasized that such actions threaten Kenya’s democratic space and infringe upon fundamental freedoms enshrined in the constitution.
General Kahariri made the remarks at the National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU) in Nairobi during a public lecture delivered by National Intelligence Service Director-General Noordin Haji. The military chief cautioned against excessive political rhetoric, urging citizens to exercise their rights responsibly to prevent national instability.
“Even as people exercise their rights, we should be within limits and bounds so that we don’t tear our country apart. As military, our core value is that we are apolitical. We don’t support any political camp. We defend the constitution and the government of the day,” Kahariri stated.
He further stressed that discontent with the government should be handled constitutionally. “So when some people say they are tired with this government, a government they elected on their own and say ‘must go,’ that ‘must go,’ must be done according to the constitution.”
However, Karua dismissed his stance, asserting that the ‘Ruto Must Go’ chants represent genuine public feedback that President William Ruto’s administration must heed. She warned against any form of intimidation aimed at silencing political expression.
“They cannot be wished away by indirect threats or intimidation by our esteemed security men, who have no business cautioning, advising, or admonishing Kenyans on their very lawful feedback,” Karua stated.
The 2022 Azimio presidential running mate urged General Kahariri to direct his concerns through the appropriate government channels rather than engaging in what she described as partisan interference.
“General Kahariri can express his concerns, if any, to the National Security Council where he, the Director of National Intelligence, and the Attorney-General—who serves as the Chief Legal Advisor of Government—are members. The unusual pronouncements by the two are a step towards partisan meddling in the politics of the day,” she remarked.
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Karua Slams Military Chief Over ‘Ruto Must Go’ Remarks in Fiery Rebuke
