Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has issued a firm directive to all civil servants, warning them against skipping work on Monday, July 7, amid planned Saba Saba demonstrations.
Speaking during a Sunday function in Embu County, Ruku emphasized that Monday is not a gazetted public holiday and that all government workers are expected to report to their duty stations by 8:00 a.m., in accordance with the Public Service Human Resource Policies and Procedures Manual of 2016.
“Monday is not a public holiday; all government employees should report to work without fail,” said Ruku. “All public servants must be at their workstations from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., as per the law.”
He further cited Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution, which outline national values and principles of public service, including discipline and accountability. Ruku warned that absenteeism would attract disciplinary action, including the requirement to issue a show-cause letter.
“I will personally conduct spot checks. Anyone who fails to report will have to explain their absence,” he added.
Rising Tensions Ahead of Saba Saba
The warning comes on the eve of the Saba Saba Day commemoration, which marks the July 7, 1990, protests that catalyzed Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy following the repeal of Section 2A of the constitution. Before then, Kenya was a one-party state under President Daniel arap Moi.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has announced a rally at Nairobi’s Kamukunji Grounds to mark the day. He cited public discontent over economic hardship, alleged police brutality, and governance failures as reasons for the gathering.
Meanwhile, several learning institutions in major towns have advised students to remain at home on Monday, anticipating potential disruptions similar to those witnessed in recent anti-government demonstrations.
Interior Ministry Calls for Calm
In Meru, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen urged protesters to maintain peace and assured the public of the government’s commitment to uphold law and order without infringing on citizens’ rights.
“Our intention is to ensure that our country remains peaceful. We have no intention of harming anyone,” said Murkomen. “The police will act professionally.”
Police Decline Protest Notice in Mombasa
Separately, the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Mombasa Central Police Station, Sylvester Wambua, rejected a notice for planned protests and a concert meant to commemorate Saba Saba Day in the coastal city.
According to the OCS, intelligence reports revealed plans by criminal elements to infiltrate the event and cause disruption.
The government’s tone heading into Monday underscores a zero-tolerance approach toward absenteeism in public offices and a heightened security posture amid concerns over potential unrest.
