In the wake of escalating tensions and the tragic police shooting of Boniface Kariuki, Nairobi Governor H.E. Sakaja Johnson has issued a strong public statement reaffirming the right to peaceful protest while condemning violence, vandalism, and lawlessness in the city.
In a statement from the Office of the Governor, Sakaja described Kariuki’s death at the hands of a police officer as “deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democratic society.” He called on relevant authorities to conduct a “thorough, independent investigation” and hold the responsible officer fully accountable.
The governor emphasized that law enforcement must act within legal bounds, upholding restraint, professionalism, and human rights.
While recognizing the constitutional right to protest, Governor Sakaja expressed grave concern over the recent surge in vandalism, looting, and destruction of public and private property in Nairobi. “Businesses built over years of sacrifice have been vandalised, and public infrastructure paid for by taxpayers destroyed,” he said.
Urging restraint and civic responsibility, particularly among the youth, the governor implored residents not to fall prey to individuals seeking to exploit lawful protests for criminal ends. “Already, Nairobi has suffered losses estimated in the billions. Businesses have shut down, jobs have been disrupted, and livelihoods destroyed,” he noted, stressing that such actions are criminal and must be condemned.
Governor Sakaja called on the National Police Service to act with “firmness and fairness” to identify and prosecute those responsible for acts of violence, emphasizing the need to uphold justice and prevent further unrest.
Reaffirming the importance of constitutional rights, the governor cited Article 37, which guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate, and petition public authorities peacefully. However, he warned that these rights do not override others’ rights to safety, freedom of movement, or work.
He strongly condemned the infiltration of protests by criminal elements and “hired goons brought in from outside Nairobi,” asserting that his administration categorically dissociates from “gangs, militias, or politically sponsored groups” engaging in violence.
In closing, Sakaja urged all Kenyans to utilize democratic institutions Parliament, the Judiciary, and legal frameworks to voice their concerns without resorting to violence. “Let us uphold the Constitution. Let us protect life, property, and our shared future. Let us pursue peace and justice without fear or favour,” he concluded.
The governor’s statement comes at a critical moment for Nairobi, as leaders and citizens alike grapple with the balance between civil liberties and public order.
