Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has condemned the destruction witnessed during the Saba Saba protests in parts of the Mt Kenya region.
In a statement, Waiguru warned that the region could face severe social, economic, and political consequences if the unrest persists.
She expressed concern over the vandalism and looting reported in some towns, including in her county, describing the damage to businesses and livelihoods as “tragic.”
“Whether carried out by locals or influenced by external actors, this is a tragedy that calls for serious introspection,” she said.
The governor questioned why some residents appeared to participate in or watch the destruction of their communities’ progress.
“Why are we destroying our future, our dignity, and our economic backbone? This is, sadly, self-sabotage,” she said.
While emphasising there is no justification for excessive use of force by security agencies, Waiguru also urged citizens to avoid violence or lawlessness under the guise of protest.
“There is no place for police brutality. No place for abductions. But there is also no place for citizen violence either,” she said.
She further reminded Kenyans that the Constitution provides for peaceful demonstrations, not destructive ones.
Waiguru acknowledged the frustrations and concerns raised by young people, particularly Generation Z, but cautioned against actions that could undermine the legitimacy of their cause.
“There is a need for the government to listen to the genuine issues raised by the youth. But let us not, as Mt Kenya, harm our future in an attempt to send a message. It risks distracting from and undermining the very real issues Gen Z have highlighted,” she said.
The governor called on Mt Kenya residents to reflect on the long-term impact of destructive protests, warning that the region stands to lose the most if unrest continues.
“If this destruction continues, we will be the biggest losers socially, economically, and politically. We must not allow ourselves to be viewed as a region that undermines its own progress,” she said.
