Gachagua urges Gen Z to swap street protests for ballot power

DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua speaking in Busia on July 4, 2025 /RIGATHI GACHAGUA/X

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged Gen Z, the young Kenyans at the forefront of anti-government protests, to consider alternative ways of expressing their discontent with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the Democracy for Citizens Party leader said his advice follows the tragic outcome of recent protests, during which several young people lost their lives.

“I want to appeal to our young people, the Gen Zs. Looking at the scenario of what is happening, I want to ask my children, my sons and daughters, to consider applying the next onslaught,” he said.

He advised them to pursue a safer and more strategic path: acquiring national identity cards and registering as voters in readiness for the 2027 General Election.

“Because I fear for them. Any time they go out on the streets, they are killed like chicken,” Gachagua said, adding that police appear intent on using brute force to disperse protesters.

His remarks come in the wake of deadly Saba Saba protests.

Police reported at least 11 deaths, while the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) placed the toll at 31.

Speaking on Wednesday, President William Ruto issued a strong warning to protest organisers, declaring, “enough is enough.”

He said malicious destruction of property and attacks aimed at law enforcement agencies will not happen under his watch anymore.

“Kenyans who attack police officers, security installations and businesses are terrorists,” Ruto declared.

“Such criminal acts are a declaration of war. We will not allow our country to be destroyed by retrogressive elements that are seeking shortcuts to rise to power,” the President added.

He spoke while inspecting a police housing project in Kilimani, Nairobi.

On Tuesday, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) approved terrorism charges against 37 individuals arrested during the June 25 protests.

The DPP said the decision followed an independent review of the case files, which found sufficient grounds to press charges.

The suspects also face alternative counts of arson and malicious property damage.

Gachagua reiterated his plea for young people to shift tactics.

“I would like to plead with them to consider joining us in the opposition by registering as voters, and in 2027, we will be sure to get rid of President William Ruto.”