KAMAGUT, Uasin Gishu – Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has strongly condemned the destruction of property worth millions of shillings that occurred during recent protests in Nairobi.
He urged demonstrators to exercise restraint in their pursuit of justice, emphasising that this should not involve acts of violence.
The three-day demonstrations followed the death of Albert Ojwang, a teacher and social media influencer, while he was in police custody.
Justice for Albert Ojwang
Governor Sakaja expressed his condolences during a Women and Youth Empowerment event at Sambut Primary School in Kamagut Ward, Uasin Gishu County, by describing Ojwang’s death as a tragic loss.
“The killing of Ojwang is regrettable. He was a friend and occasionally collaborated with us in the media team. I am committed to helping his family. I will cover all burial expenses, offer his widow a job, and build rental houses for his father,” Sakaja assured the attendees on Saturday.
While pledging his support for the grieving family, Sakaja issued a stern warning against those who might exploit this tragedy to justify destruction.
“Even if we are angry, let’s not destroy our property. If we must demonstrate, let us do so peacefully. Next time, there should be no attempts to destroy infrastructure, burn cars, steal from businesses, or create chaos,” he warned.
Sakaja revealed that police have already identified several individuals involved in the recent wave of destruction across Nairobi.
He assured the public that arrests would be made and accountability enforced.
“The Constitution allows for peaceful demonstrations, not violence. We must protect our businesses. What happened will not be allowed to happen again,” he stated.
Affirming Sakaja’s remarks, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah called for decisive action against those responsible for the violence.
“Nairobi will not become Mogadishu. We cannot allow this. Those burning county assets, destroying businesses, setting vehicles on fire, and vandalising infrastructure are not seeking justice; that is criminal behaviour, not a pursuit of justice,” Ichung’wah warned.
Unlocking Women’s Potential
President William Ruto’s Personal Aide, Farouk Kibet, stated that women’s full potential can only be unlocked by mobilising resources to support women-led programs.
“Economically empowered women uplift families, fuel grassroots enterprises, and contribute meaningfully to social progress,” he said.
Farouk further emphasised, “Supporting their growth is a moral obligation and a strategic investment in sustainable development and inclusive prosperity.”
Vandalism of Businesses and Infrastructure
Several Nairobi Members of the County Assemblies (MCAs) accompanying Governor Sakaja at the event strongly criticised the violence and urged law enforcement to take swift action.
During the recent protests, essential services like lighting and sanitation were damaged, and some businesses were looted by individuals masquerading as protesters.
Investigations are currently being conducted by the police, and they have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The event was also attended by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii (the host), National Assembly Chief Whip Silvanus Osoro, Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), Japheth Nyakundi, and Hiribae Said.
Legislators Peter Lochakapong, Fatuma Zainab, Jane Kagiri, Doris Donya, Paul Abuor, John Bwire, and Ali Wario Guyo, among other distinguished leaders, were also present.
“Don’t destroy what has taken us years to build. We will not allow this to continue — people losing their businesses and infrastructure being vandalised. Next time they try, we will ensure the law takes its course,” cautioned Umoja 1 Nairobi MCA Mark Mugambi aka Roro.
