FIPA party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has sharply criticised the government’s alleged misuse of anti-terrorism legislation to clamp down on political dissent and civic activism.
Speaking during a church service at Buach Tabernacle Ministries in Nairobi, Kalonzo said the growing trend of using terrorism prevention laws to target opposition voices is “unconstitutional and dangerous.”
“This is not counterterrorism—it is state-sponsored intimidation. It criminalizes civic action and undermines our hard-won democratic freedoms,” he told the congregation.
The former Vice President warned that invoking the Prevention of Terrorism Act against critics erodes public trust in security institutions and threatens the very liberties the laws were intended to protect.
Kalonzo’s remarks come amid mounting concern from civil society over what they describe as an escalating crackdown on human rights defenders, journalists, and activists. Several high-profile arrests in recent weeks have sparked outrage, with some individuals reportedly charged under anti-terrorism laws for organising protests or criticising government policy.
He called on the state to uphold the rule of law and respect the right to free expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation. “Our constitution is clear—dissent is not treason,” Kalonzo added. “It is a vital part of democracy.”
The government has yet to respond to the claims, but officials have previously defended the use of security laws as necessary to maintain public order and protect national security.
The debate is expected to intensify as political tensions rise ahead of the next parliamentary session.
