A section of Mavoko residents has condemned ongoing anti-government protests in parts of the country, terming them unwarranted and politically motivated.
Speaking under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Mavoko Chapter, the residents criticised opposition leaders for allegedly polarising Kenyans for personal political interests.
They said they would not support the planned 'Saba Saba' protests on Monday, July 7.
“We, as Mavoko residents and UDA members, are against the so-called ‘Saba Saba’. Some of the leaders criticising President Ruto were once in government—what did they do for Kenyans then?” Benson Mule, a resident, posed.
They addressed the press at a local hotel in Athi River, Machakos County, on Friday.
The residents said recent protests have resulted in deaths and destruction of property, adding that those opposed to the government should wait for the 2027 elections.
They pledged full support for President Ruto’s administration, saying the Ukambani region had lost development opportunities due to years of opposition politics.
“Rigathi Gachagua was part of the government he now criticises. What did he do for Mavoko and Machakos when in office? We have resolved that there will be no Saba Saba. We, including the youth and Gen Zs, are ready to support UDA and President Ruto,” Mule said.
They also welcomed Ruto’s upcoming visit to the region and urged him to come with tangible solutions.
At the top of their concerns is the issuance of title deeds to occupants of contested East African Portland Cement Company (EAPCC) and Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) lands in Athi River.
“We’re being oppressed by a handful of individuals. The land rates are too high. President, please intervene,” Mule said.
They said they are ready to deal directly with KCB and called for reduced rates to make the land affordable.
Regina Syokau, a resident, said the opposition offers no solution to their problems.
“As EAPCC land residents, we’ve suffered. Our property is stolen, houses broken into—we live in fear,” Syokau said.
She thanked Deputy President Kithure Kindiki for acknowledging their plight and promising intervention.
Kindiki, on June 28, promised an amicable solution to land disputes involving EAPCC and the Kenya Meat Commission in Athi River.
Florence Loko said some squatters cannot afford even Sh10,000 to regularise their plots, despite living there since 2009.“The President is powerful. He can order the issuance of title deeds,” she said.
Felister Mueni, speaking on behalf of widows, said they were vulnerable and needed state support.
“As widows, we depend on God. President, help us. KCB and EAPCC are government entities—and so are we,” she said.
The residents also urged youth to avoid protests and shun violence.“There would be no deaths without confrontation. Youth, please stay home. We don’t want to die,” said Boniface Mutinda.
