Jomo Kenyatta, the son of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, has taken legal action against the government shortly after a recent attempted raid at his residence, where authorities were searching for guns.
Jomo filed a lawsuit at the Milimani Law Courts on Wednesday, July 26, contesting the government’s decision to revoke his gun license. His defense is based on the argument that the whole process did not adhere to the proper legal procedure.
In his petition, Jomo requested the court to order the Firearms Licensing Board and the Attorney General to stop demanding his license until they follow the appropriate and lawful procedure for revocation.
The Firearms Act outlines specific conditions under which a firearm certificate may be revoked. These include situations where the holder is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm, exhibits intemperate habits or unsound mind, or is deemed unfit to be entrusted with a weapon. Another reason for revocation is if the holder fails to comply with a notice requesting them to surrender the firearm certificate.
Jomo stated in his court documents that his gun license is valid until Saturday, April 27, 2024.
The controversy arose when police conducted a raid at Jomo’s home in Karen on Friday, July 21, claiming that he possessed 28 weapons obtained illegally. The government accused the former President of supporting anti-government protests led by Azimio leader Raila Odinga. However, Uhuru Kenyatta denied these allegations, stating that his sons, Jomo and Muhoho, only had six guns, not the alleged 20-plus claimed by the State.
Uhuru expressed his frustration during a media interview, denying any involvement in funding opposition protests and questioning why his family members were being dragged into the situation. He urged authorities to come directly to him if they had any issues, rather than involving his mother or son. His main concern was the association with Raila Odinga, which he felt should not be considered a crime.
Overall, the situation is marked by legal disputes and allegations, with Jomo Kenyatta seeking to challenge the government’s actions through the appropriate legal channels.