NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 8- It is a full-blown crisis for the United Democratic Alliance party led by Deputy President William Ruto, following remarks by Meru Senator Mithika Linturi, said to have evoked dark memories of 2007-2008 Post Election Violence (PEV).
Linturi and politicians allied to the Deputy President say the remarks have been blown out of context, but Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji wants him investigated.
In a statement, the DPP said Linturi’s remarks have the potential of inciting “feelings of contempt, hatred, hostility, violence or discrimination.”
Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai now has until January 14 to submit the file for his review.
More than 1,000 lives were lost during 2007-2008 violence and more than 600,000 others internally displaced.
President Uhuru Kenyatta and DP Ruto were among 6 Kenyans who faced crime against humanity charges at the International Criminal Court.
The charges were later dropped.
What did Linturi say?
“Watu wa Uasin Gishu msicheze na Kenya, na kile na waomba ni kwamba madoa madoa yale mulionayo hapa muweze kuondoa,” reads the remarks, as cited by the DPP in his statement.
According to Linturi, his remarks were directed to those not supporting DP Ruto.
In a Tweet, the ODPP said, “The DPP has directed those comprehensive investigations be undertaken expeditiously on utterances made by Hon. Mithika Linturi.”
“We wish to inform members of the public that persons found culpable of hate speech and incitement will be prosecuted.”
DP Ruto in a Tweet said, “We believe in peaceful co-existence and that everyone has the unconditional right to make their own political choices without coercion, threats or intimidation.”
Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi, who was attending the rally, said Linturi meant “voting six-piece.”
Want to send us a story? Contact Shahidi News Tel: +254115512797 (Mobile & WhatsApp)
