Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has criticised the arrest of Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia, accusing President William Ruto's administration of selectively enforcing the law against opposition leaders while overlooking similar cases involving government officials.
In a statement posted on his official X page on Monday, the former Vice President condemned what he described as the arbitrary arrest of the legislator over his public remarks. He argued that the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and that the law must be applied equally to all Kenyans.
Kalonzo said he does not support incitement but maintained that every leader has a duty to uphold peace and respect the rule of law.
"We do not support incitement, from anyone. Every leader has a duty to protect peace and to respect the rule of law. The Constitution guarantees every Kenyan freedom of expression. The law must be applied fairly, not selectively," he said.
The opposition leader questioned what he termed a double standard in law enforcement, alleging that government officials had previously made inflammatory remarks without facing legal consequences.
He cited President William Ruto's past "shoot and kill" remarks, as well as statements by the UDA Secretary-General and a Cabinet Secretary that he described as tribal insults, saying no action had been taken against them.
"Justice in Kenya cannot depend on whether you are pro-government or in the opposition. 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," Kalonzo said.
His remarks add to mounting opposition criticism over Kaguchia's arrest, with several leaders accusing the government of using law enforcement agencies to target political opponents as the country edges closer to the 2027 General Election.
Kaguchia was arrested on Monday morning after leaving the Royal Media Services studios in Nairobi. He had spent the night at the station following an appearance on Inooro TV's Kiririmbi programme.
The arrest is linked to investigations into remarks he allegedly made during a political rally in Kieni, Nyeri County. Authorities say they are examining the statements as possible inflammatory or inciteful remarks.
Before his arrest, the MP had claimed on social media that police had surrounded the media house and erected roadblocks in anticipation of detaining him.
The incident has reignited debate over the balance between freedom of expression and public order, with opposition leaders warning that selective prosecutions could deepen political divisions ahead of the next election cycle.
