Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has voiced concern over the growing trend of criminal elements infiltrating the ongoing Gen Z-led protests across Kenya. Speaking during his tour of Nakuru County, Kagwe stressed that while the right to peaceful protest is enshrined in the Constitution, recent incidents of destruction and looting risk overshadowing the legitimate voices of young demonstrators.
Kagwe noted that the Gen Z movement, which has gained national momentum in calling for greater accountability and reforms, must not be tarnished by acts of lawlessness. “We must protect the integrity of peaceful demonstrations. Destruction of property, theft, and violence are not part of the constitutional right to protest they are acts of anarchy,” he said.
The CS called on citizens to exercise civic responsibility by safeguarding both public and private infrastructure, urging Kenyans not to allow criminals to hide behind the noble cause of youth-led activism. He warned that continued infiltration of the protests by organised criminal groups threatens not only property and businesses but also the overall national stability.
Kagwe appealed to the Ministry of Interior and security agencies to move swiftly and decisively in identifying and isolating rogue elements who seek to derail the genuine aspirations of young Kenyans. “Security must be enhanced to ensure that peaceful protesters are protected, and that those with criminal intent are dealt with in accordance with the law,” he stated.
The recent wave of demonstrations has seen thousands of young people take to the streets to protest against economic hardships, rising public debt, and perceived government inefficiencies. While largely peaceful, some protests have escalated into confrontations, with reports of vandalism, arson, and looting in several urban centres.
Kagwe’s remarks come as the government grapples with balancing the right to protest with the need to maintain public order. He reaffirmed the government’s willingness to listen to the youth’s concerns but emphasized that violence would only dilute their message and stall progress.
“We support engagement, not destruction. Let us all work together to ensure our democracy remains strong, peaceful, and respected,” Kagwe concluded.
