Opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka has strongly condemned the arrest of Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia, describing the move as arbitrary and warning against what he termed the selective application of justice in Kenya.
In a statement published on his official Facebook page, Kalonzo maintained that while leaders must exercise responsibility in their public utterances, the law should never be enforced based on political affiliation.
“I strongly condemn the arbitrary arrest of Mukurweini MP, Hon. John Kaguchia, over his public remarks”, part of statement on his Facebook post stated.
Kalonzo was careful to distance himself from inflammatory speech, emphasizing that his criticism was about equal application of the law rather than defending incitement.
“Let me be clear: we do not support incitement, from anyone. Every leader has a duty to protect peace and to respect the rule of law.” part of statement on his Facebook post read.
He further argued that Kenya’s Constitution protects freedom of expression and that legal action should be guided by justice rather than politics.
“The Constitution guarantees every Kenyan freedom of expression. The law must be applied fairly, not selectively.” He added
Why Was John Kaguchia Arrested?
Reports indicate the arrest followed his public statements, made during an interview with a Tv station. With the matter reportedly linked to investigations into alleged incitement. However, no official charge sheet or comprehensive police statement detailing the specific remarks had been publicly released.
Kalonzo Questions Double Standards
A significant part of Kalonzo’s statement focused on what he described as inconsistent enforcement of the law.
“Yet Mr. Ruto’s regime said ‘shoot and kill’ against our own children. No action followed.” A statement on his Facebook account read.
He also referenced previous controversial remarks allegedly made by senior government officials.
“The UDA Secretary General and a sitting Cabinet Secretary hurled tribal insults, one going so far as to call an entire community ‘hyenas.’ Again, no action.” A statement on his Facebook account read.
These comparisons formed the basis of his central question: “Why the double standard?”
According to Kalonzo, equal justice requires that every individual whether in government or opposition be subjected to the same legal standards whenever allegations of incitement arise.
“Selective Justice Is Not Justice”
Kalonzo noted that the credibility of Kenya’s justice system depends on impartiality.
“Justice in Kenya cannot depend on whether you are pro-government or in the opposition.” A statement on his Facebook account read.
He added:
“If incitement is the standard, apply it to everyone; Mukurweini MP or Cabinet Secretary, it does not matter. Selective justice is not justice. It has no place in our democracy.”
The arrest of John Kaguchia has since ignited debate over freedom of expression, political accountability, and whether the criminal justice system applies the law equally across the political divide. As investigations continue, the case is expected to remain at the centre of Kenya’s national political conversation
