Sakaja calls for peaceful protests, assures emergency support in Nairobi

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has expressed support for the constitutional right to peaceful protests ahead of the Gen Z-led demonstrations slated for Wednesday.

The Wednesday protest will be in honour of those killed during last year's protest.

In a statement issued on Monday, Sakaja urged both demonstrators and law enforcement to uphold peace, dignity, and the rule of law, emphasising the importance of civic expression.

“Fellow Kenyans and Nairobians, as we mark one year of the Gen Z protests, I want to affirm that Nairobi City County supports the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. The voices of our people are powerful and important in shaping the future of our nation,” said Sakaja.

The governor acknowledged the passion, energy, and civic consciousness demonstrated by the youth, reiterating his alignment with their right to lawful expression.

He also called on the National Police Service to handle the demonstrations with utmost professionalism.

Sakaja assured residents that his administration has put in place emergency response mechanisms to ensure the safety and well-being of all during the protests.

“My administration has made arrangements for any necessary support. In case of any emergency within the city, call our operations centre at 1508. Our ambulances, doctors, fire engines — whatever is required — will be available to assist you. We have prepared for that. Please stay safe,” he said. 

 Sakaja, who is out of the country, made the statement from Paris, France.

He travelled to the country to join over 40 city leaders from across the globe to commemorate a decade since the signing of the historic Paris Climate Agreement (COP21).

The event, hosted by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, brought together global mayors, international organisations, and climate policy leaders to evaluate progress and chart a path from climate negotiations to tangible delivery.

Back in Nairobi, demonstrations are expected to take place in various areas in the country as young people commemorate the first anniversary of the historic Gen Z protests that happened in 2024.

The Gen Z-led protest of June 2024 will go down in history as one of the most defining civic movements in modern Kenya.

Sparked by frustration over governance, economic challenges, and lack of youth representation, thousands of young Kenyans armed not with weapons but with placards, phones, and conviction, took to the streets demanding accountability, justice, and reform.