Government Targets Politicians and NGOs for Funding Protests
Politicians, 2 NGOs on Govt Radar for Allegedly Funding Violent Protests
President William Ruto had previously vowed to firmly deal with people he claimed were funding the anti-government protests. An intelligence report has placed six politicians, 2 NGOs, and a businessman at the center of the violent demonstrations.
Politicians and NGOs Identified
A Nairobi politician is accused of mobilizing and hiring goons from Kibera, Mathare, and Babadogo to take part in the protests. Detectives believe the widespread demonstrations are not organic but funded by key figures in the country.
Key Figures and Suspicions
The Nation reported that detectives have listed six prominent politicians, two Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and a businessman as sponsors of the violent demonstrations.
Regional Involvement
According to the intelligence report, three of the politicians are from Nairobi county, two from the Mt. Kenya region, and one from Rift Valley. The listed individuals, including a businessman from Rift Valley, are suspected of financing the now three-week-old anti-tax protests.
Logistical Support Allegations
The alleged financiers have reportedly provided logistical support to the demonstrators, including transportation to the epicenters of the protests, such as the central business districts of major cities.
Night Meetings and Planning
A Nairobi politician is accused of holding secret night meetings to plan the demonstrations, as detailed in the intelligence brief shared with top security chiefs in Nairobi.
DCI’s Pursuit
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has deployed teams to apprehend individuals engaged in violent criminal activities during the protests. Masked as protesters, unruly youths raided several business premises, looting property valued at thousands of dollars.
Optimism in Arrests
Detectives express optimism about arresting and prosecuting the suspected perpetrators, ensuring accountability for the damage caused during the protests.
