Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has warned that the government will take firm action against individuals who engage in hooliganism, looting and the destruction of public and private property during demonstrations.
Speaking during an interdenominational prayer service at Kapsang in Soy Constituency, Uasin Gishu County, Kindiki said while the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful picketing and demonstrations, it also protects the rights of other citizens and businesses.
The Deputy President emphasized that the government will not allow criminal elements to take advantage of public gatherings to cause chaos or destroy property.
“The government will not entertain any monkey business come Thursday during the scheduled commemorations,” Kindiki said, referring to planned activities marking the anniversary of the Gen Z protests.
He reiterated that Kenyans are free to express their views peacefully but warned that anyone involved in violence, vandalism or looting would face the full force of the law.
Kindiki also accused opposition leaders of spreading misinformation about the recently passed Finance Bill, claiming that some politicians were deliberately misrepresenting the legislation to mislead the public and incite hostility against the government.
According to the Deputy President, the government remains committed to implementing policies aimed at improving the livelihoods of Kenyans and urged citizens to seek accurate information regarding government programmes and legislation.
Several leaders who attended the prayer service backed Kindiki’s remarks and called for peaceful engagement in national affairs.
Among them were Nandi Governor Stephen Sang and Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, who condemned political leaders they accused of inciting citizens and fueling divisions within the country.
The leaders urged Kenyans to uphold peace, unity and respect for the rule of law, while emphasizing the need to protect both public and private property.
The remarks come ahead of planned commemorations linked to last year’s Gen Z-led protests, which attracted nationwide attention and sparked debate over governance, taxation and youth participation in public affairs.
Security agencies have indicated that they will remain vigilant to ensure that any demonstrations held across the country remain peaceful and within the confines of the law.
