"Governor Sakaja Is Right to Defend Nairobi from Criminality Masquerading as Protest" – Says Eldoret-Based Human Rights Activist Kipkorir Ngetich

 

Eldoret-based human rights activist and civic educator Kipkorir Ngetich has come out in strong support of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, commending him for taking a firm stand against what he calls “organized criminal gangs” that have recently taken over the Nairobi city center under the guise of democratic protest.

In a lengthy statement issued to the press on Tuesday, Ngetich voiced his deep frustration and alarm over the growing trend of lawlessness, looting, and destruction of property taking place during recent street demonstrations in the capital. According to Ngetich, what began as constitutionally protected protests have now degenerated into orchestrated chaos, with innocent business owners, commuters, and police officers bearing the brunt of the mayhem.

“Let’s be honest with ourselves—what we are witnessing is not freedom of assembly; it is urban anarchy. Criminals, emboldened by political rhetoric and social media sympathy, have turned protests into looting sprees,” Ngetich said. “It is disheartening that the governor is being vilified for protecting livelihoods, law, and order.”

Constitutional Rights Must Be Exercised Responsibly

Ngetich reaffirmed his unwavering support for constitutional freedoms such as the right to demonstrate and picket. However, he stressed that Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees these rights, also places an obligation on citizens to exercise them peacefully and responsibly.

“The Constitution is very clear—yes, you can protest, but your protest must be peaceful. When protests turn violent, when stones are thrown, when police officers are attacked, and when shops are looted, then we are no longer talking about freedom. That is criminality, plain and simple,” he argued.

He further criticized some politicians and social media influencers for fanning the flames of unrest and failing to call out the destruction and violence, which he claims is destroying the credibility of lawful protests and undermining the democratic space that so many Kenyans fought to establish.

“Why is there silence when businesses are robbed, when public infrastructure is destroyed, and when police officers are injured in the line of duty? Is democracy now a license for hooliganism?” Ngetich posed.

Support for Business Community

Ngetich was particularly passionate about the plight of Nairobi’s business community, which he says is being held hostage by rogue protesters. He noted that most traders in the Central Business District (CBD) operate on tight margins and borrowed capital, and frequent closures due to insecurity are pushing many to the brink of collapse.

“These are hardworking men and women trying to put food on the table. They pay taxes, employ others, and contribute to the local economy. What happens to their rights? Don’t they also have a right to a peaceful working environment?” he asked.

He urged Nairobi residents, especially business owners, to rally behind Governor Sakaja, who he said has demonstrated courage and leadership in the face of growing intimidation.

“His Excellency the Governor was elected by Nairobians to lead and protect their interests. He is doing exactly that. He should not be condemned for restoring sanity in the capital.”

Police Under Siege

Ngetich also raised the issue of police morale, saying that Kenya’s law enforcement officers are increasingly demoralized and overwhelmed by the wave of violent protests. He admitted that while some officers may still use excessive force, a large majority have undergone reform and are operating under extreme pressure.

“Our police officers are human beings too. They have families. They are being provoked, insulted, pelted with stones, and sometimes disarmed by mobs. Who speaks for them? Who defends their rights?” Ngetich questioned.

He called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ensure that its mandate is balanced—investigating not only allegations of police misconduct but also the abuse of rights by civilians who exploit democratic space to commit crimes.

“We do not support police brutality. But let us not pretend that lawlessness by citizens is okay. The Constitution applies to all of us—whether in uniform or in civilian clothes.”

Parliament Must Act

In his statement, Ngetich also took Parliament to task for failing to legislate clear boundaries between peaceful protest and criminal activity. He said lawmakers must urgently develop a legal framework that protects peaceful demonstrators while ensuring police have the legal tools to deal with hardcore criminals hiding behind political slogans.

“You cannot lump genuine protestors with looters and vandals. Parliament must protect the right to protest, but also give law enforcement the clarity they need to act decisively when the law is broken.”

He called on the National Assembly and Senate to convene a special sitting to address the safety of law enforcement officers, the rights of traders, and the emerging culture of impunity seen during protests.

Call for Civic Responsibility

Ngetich concluded by calling on parents, educators, and religious leaders to instill discipline and civic responsibility in young Kenyans.

“We must not raise a generation that is disrespectful to the rule of law. If these youths attacking officers today become our leaders tomorrow, how will they expect respect and order from citizens?”

He urged political leaders to stop inciting the youth, warning that the seeds of chaos being planted today will yield instability tomorrow. He also implored the Inspector General of Police to stand firmly with his officers and protect them from mob attacks, saying hesitation at the top breeds confusion and emboldens lawbreakers.

“We want to see a police chief who acts swiftly when his officers are in danger, who restores calm and dignity to public spaces, and who ensures that Nairobi—and Kenya at large—remains a place of order, security, and opportunity.”

June 18, 2025