This archive report was first published on 24 August 2020.
On August 24, 2020, Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai faced intense backlash over his comments on demonstrations during the Covid-19 period.
During a weekly online session, a member of the public, John King'oo, questioned Mutyambai about the frequent arrests of protesters despite the Constitution protecting the right to picket.
Mutyambai responded by blaming the arrests on the Covid-19 pandemic, citing Ministry of Health protocols on social and physical distancing.
However, Kenyans were quick to point out that political gatherings with several attendees continued to be held, raising questions about the enforcement of social distancing protocols.
Leaders, including President Uhuru Kenyatta and Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, have been criticized for their perceived double standards in enforcing Covid-19 regulations.
On August 10, 2020, Uhuru addressed large crowds in Nairobi's informal settlements, despite his insistence on adherence to Covid-19 measures by all Kenyans.
Similarly, Kagwe has addressed crowds in his tours to counties, including Kericho and Mombasa, to assess county preparedness for the pandemic.
These actions have fueled perceptions of double standards in the enforcement of Covid-19 regulations, with many accusing Mutyambai of prioritizing the interests of the political elite over those of regular citizens.
