Weitethie MCA Macharia, driver arrested over vehicle with DP Ruto’s portrait in military fatigue

Kiambu Member of County Assembly Julius Macharia Taki and his driver have been arrested in connection with this van featuring Deputy President William Ruto in a ceremonial military tunic. [Photo: Courtesy]

Police in Kiambu have arrested a Member of County Assembly Julius Macharia Taki and his driver George Ngugi Kiarie for allegedly driving a motor vehicle displaying a portrait of the Deputy President William Ruto in ceremonial military uniform.

The MCA of Weithethe ward and his driver were booked at Juja police station under OB 93/27/5/2019 at 2010hrs. The details of arrest indicate that the vehicle displayed graphics of the coat of arms and national flag of Kenya thus "contravening section 3 (a) cap L.O.Kof the National Flag Emblem and Names of Act.”

The Law of Kenya prohibits one from flying the national flag on any premises or occasion other than a government one and or a national holiday respectively.

Flying the National Flag on vehicles is a preserve of the President, the Deputy President, the Chief Justice, the Speaker of the National Assembly and Senate, Cabinet Secretaries, Kenyan diplomats (only when abroad) and the Attorney-General.

Contravening the law on National flag may land one in jail for a maximum of five years and a fine not exceeding Sh1 million or both.

The duo will be arraigned today at Thika Chief Magistrate Court for the offence. The  Toyota Hiace is currently detained at the same station awaiting photography and further investigation.