Peter Kaluma, the Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament, has come under fresh pressure after Government Spokesperson Charles Owino publicly questioned why the lawmaker has not been arrested over remarks he made ahead of a political rally in Homa Bay.
Owino strongly criticised Kaluma’s choice of words, describing the remarks as careless, primitive and backward. He said such language was not expected from a person holding an elected position, especially a lawmaker.
He also raised questions about the action taken by the police and investigators following the remarks.
The Government Spokesperson challenged the Director of Criminal Investigations and the police to explain to Kenyans why Kaluma remains free.
According to Owino, the matter should by now have progressed to the Director of Public Prosecutions if investigators found grounds for further legal action.
The comments have placed Kaluma in an uncomfortable position because the criticism is coming from within the government establishment rather than from his usual political opponents.
Owino’s remarks have therefore drawn attention to whether authorities intend to investigate the MP over statements that were widely recorded and circulated.
Kaluma made the remarks in the days leading to the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay. During his address, he spoke strongly against people promoting the idea of a one-term presidency.
He also directed that hotels and houses where supporters associated with the opposing side had booked rooms be checked.
He further spoke about dealing with the people involved and the hotels that had hosted them. The remarks were recorded and later shared widely, leading to questions about whether the statements amounted to a threat against political opponents and businesses hosting them.
Owino has now openly condemned the language used by Kaluma, saying it was not appropriate for a lawmaker. His comments have also placed the spotlight on the response of the security agencies, particularly the DCI and the police.
The issue has remained a subject of political discussion as no arrest has been reported following the remarks.
Owino’s demand for an explanation has therefore raised questions about whether investigators have opened a formal inquiry and, if so, what stage the process has reached.
Kaluma, who is also a lawyer and a long-serving MP, is familiar with the responsibilities that come with holding public office. His position in Parliament gives his public statements considerable attention, particularly when they touch on political opponents and security-related matters.
The latest criticism also puts pressure on the authorities to clarify their position. If investigators believe that Kaluma’s statements breached the law, Kenyans would expect the relevant agencies to explain what action is being taken. If no offence was established, the police and investigators would also need to make that position clear.
Owino’s remarks have therefore shifted the debate around Kaluma’s statements. The demand for action is no longer being raised only by political critics. A senior government spokesperson has publicly questioned why the MP has not been arrested and why his case has not reached the prosecution stage.
