Editor's Review

"Kenya is a country of the rule of law. Violence and destruction of property have no place in our country."

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua released a statement shortly after ODM leader Raila Odinga called off mass protests countrywide.  

Raila while addressing the press at his Capital Hill office said he has turned down protests to give room for Bi-partisan dialogue as suggested by Ruto.  

In a rejoinder to the development, Gachagua called Raila’s move a show of statesmanship.

He, however, appeared to maintain his hardline stance on the matter even as he continued to refer to Raila's demonstrations as "violence".

ODM Leader Raila Odinga addressing the Press Sunday.

"I salute Hon Raila Odinga for calling off demonstrations and violence and choosing to pursue his issues in Parliament in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of Kenya. That is Statesmanship," Gachagua said. 

He maintained that they remain committed to protecting Kenyans today and in the near future against the violence that emerges out of protests.

"Kenya is a country of the rule of law. Violence and destruction of property have no place in our country. It will never be allowed under the leadership of H.E President William Samoei Ruto now or in future," he said.

"As our President has stated, the Government remains committed to protecting life and property tomorrow, the next day, next week, and the years to come." 

Raila on Monday said he will not hold demos this week saying he will give Ruto regime one week to kickstart the process of having a bi-partisan engagement on issues of concern.

He warned that if no meaningful development is made, they will have no option but to start protests.