National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula Defends Aden Duale over KDF Deployment Remarks Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula has come to the defense of Majority Leader Aden Duale after the latter’s comments regarding the deployment of the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) in Laikipia County sparked controversy. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Wetangula argued that Duale’s remarks were taken out of context and that he meant no harm. He said that Duale had merely expressed the concerns of residents of Laikipia who have been affected by banditry and cattle rustling. “Hon. Duale was simply echoing the sentiments of the people he represents. It is unfortunate that his words have been twisted and misinterpreted,” Wetangula stated. Wetangula’s defense of Duale follows a backlash from opposition leaders and civil society groups who accused Duale of inciting violence and undermining the rule of law. Duale had suggested that the KDF should be allowed to deal with the bandits in Laikipia “without mercy.” The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has since summoned Duale to explain his remarks. However, Wetangula pleaded with the commission to give Duale a fair hearing and to avoid making any hasty judgments. “Let us not rush to condemn Hon. Duale. Let us hear from him and understand his intentions before we pass judgment,” Wetangula said. He added that the National Assembly was committed to finding a solution to the security challenges in Laikipia and that it would work with all stakeholders to ensure the safety and well-being of the people in the region.Legal Scrutiny of Kenya’s Military DeploymentLegal Scrutiny of Kenya’s Military Deployment High Court Judge Lawrence Mugambi is meticulously examining the legality and justification of the deployment of Kenya’s defense forces. During a hearing initiated by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Judge Mugambi posed pointed questions to the parties involved to ascertain the intricacies of military operations and defense regulations. Deployment Parameters LSK cited Article 241 of the Constitution, which outlines the circumstances under which the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) can be mobilized. These include emergencies or disasters, and instances of unrest or instability, subject to National Assembly approval. The LSK argued that the government had not provided clarity as to whether the KDF’s presence in the capital was in response to an emergency or unrest, raising concerns about the absence of a riot declaration. Alleged Constitutional Violation LSK alleged that Cabinet Secretary Hassan Duale published a gazette notice authorizing the deployment before seeking parliamentary approval. This, according to LSK, violated the constitutional requirement that such a notice be issued within 24 hours of receiving parliamentary approval. Government’s Defense The State, represented by Emmanuel Bitta of the Attorney General’s Office, maintained that Duale’s gazette notice was lawful and compliant with the 24-hour timeline. Bitta urged the court to refrain from granting restraining orders, citing the potential security risks involved. Judicial Inquiry Judge Mugambi pressed Bitta on the rationale behind Parliament’s exclusive role in authorizing military deployments. Bitta responded that it served as a supervisory mechanism due to the sensitive nature of military operations. LSK, however, reiterated that parliamentary approval was a post-deployment formality. They emphasized the need for adherence to constitutional procedures, including obtaining parliamentary approval before deployment. Pending Ruling The court is expected to issue its ruling at 3 pm on whether to halt the deployment of military officers as requested in the gazette notice published by Duale.AG Kihara Defends Duale Amidst KDF Dispute Attorney General Kihara Kariuki has defended National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale against accusations of improper deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel. The AG’s remarks came during a parliamentary committee hearing where Duale was questioned about the alleged misuse of KDF soldiers in his constituency. “The deployment of KDF personnel in Garissa Township was not illegal,” Kihara stated. “The Constitution provides for the president to deploy forces to maintain law and order.” The AG explained that the deployment was necessary to quell inter-clan clashes that had erupted in the area. He said that the soldiers had been instructed to conduct patrols and protect civilians. Kihara dismissed allegations that Duale had used the KDF personnel for his personal security. He said that there was no evidence to support these claims. “The AG’s defence of Duale has drawn mixed reactions,” said political analyst John Mwangi. “Some believe that the government is protecting its own, while others believe that Kihara is acting in accordance with the law.” The controversy over the KDF deployment has sparked a debate about the proper role of the military in civilian affairs. Critics argue that the use of soldiers to maintain law and order undermines the rule of law. However, the government maintains that the KDF is a necessary tool for maintaining stability and protecting citizens.