Assistant Chief Thomas Cheboi of Uswo Sub-Location in Uasin Gishu County has ignited widespread condemnation following inflammatory remarks about the June 25, 2025, protests, where he allegedly stated that the reported deaths were “too low” and should have been “1,000 or 2,000”.
The controversial comments, reportedly made during a public burial in Cheplasgei, Karuna/Meibeki Ward, Moiben Constituency, have drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, citizens, and social media users, with many calling for Cheboi’s arrest and prosecution for inciting violence.
The June 25 protests, part of a broader movement against the Finance Bill 2025, resulted in significant unrest in Uasin Gishu, with three county vehicles torched and the county court set ablaze.
Official reports confirm at least 19 deaths and over 400 injuries nationwide, largely attributed to police actions, according to Amnesty International.
Cheboi’s remarks, as reported on X, have fuelled public anger, with users labelling him a “terrorist” and demanding accountability.
One post stated, “Huyu muuaji tumfanyie nini?” (What should we do with this killer?), reflecting the intensity of public outrage.
Cheboi’s statement, allegedly echoing a “shoot-to-kill” sentiment linked to Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, has raised concerns about the government’s stance on protest management.
Assistant Chief Thomas Cheboi of Uswo Sub-Location in Uasin Gishu County has drawn widespread condemnation after making inflammatory remarks at a public burial, where he callously suggested that the number of protesters fatally shot by police during the June 25th anniversary… pic.twitter.com/ZBHwZalIBm
— Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 5, 2025
Netizens highlight fears that such rhetoric from local leaders could escalate tensions ahead of the Saba Saba 2025 demonstrations, a significant pro-democracy milestone.
The Uasin Gishu County government, led by Governor Jonathan Bii, has faced prior criticism for its handling of protests, with church leaders like Zablon Malema urging dialogue to prevent further violence.
Human rights organisations have called for investigations into Cheboi’s remarks, emphasising that incitement violates Kenya’s constitutional protections for peaceful assembly.
Since when have Assistant Chiefs made such reckless and silly remarks? Ama ni order from above? pic.twitter.com/m4IZ81KJyq
— PropesaTV (@PropesaTV) June 29, 2025
The controversy comes amid broader unrest in Uasin Gishu, a region marked by past scandals, including the 2023 overseas education programme fraud that left parents demanding refunds.
As public sentiment grows, with hashtags like #SabaSaba2025 trending, Cheboi’s comments underscore the delicate balance between governance and public dissent in Kenya’s volatile political landscape.
