Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku has firmly distanced the county’s residents from the violence and destruction witnessed during the Saba Saba protests on Monday, asserting that those responsible for the unrest were not from Kajiado.
Speaking during a visit to Kitengela Sub-County Hospital on Tuesday, Lenku condemned the attacks on public facilities and acts of vandalism, saying they do not reflect the character of the people of Kajiado, who are known for peaceful coexistence.
“Kajiado residents are generally peaceful communities,” said the governor. “What we saw sends a worrying message that it is no longer about people seeking their rights or engaging in lawful picketing, but rather about individuals with ill intentions.”
Lenku highlighted an incident where a group stormed Kitengela Hospital carrying the body of a 21-year-old protester who had reportedly been fatally shot. He alleged the group assaulted hospital staff and destroyed property, including breaking windows, as they tried to force their way inside.
He also pointed to other violent incidents in Kitengela, Kiserian, and Ngong, where businesses and government facilities were reportedly vandalized. County offices in Kiserian were among the targets.
“We cannot continue to watch as people’s businesses and public facilities are vandalized and destroyed,” Lenku said. “I urge citizens to cooperate with law enforcement to ensure that such actions do not take root in our society.”
The governor emphasized that the people behind the destruction were not peaceful demonstrators but individuals acting outside the law. He implied that they may have come from outside the county to incite chaos.
Lenku praised Kajiado residents for exercising restraint despite provocations and thanked health workers who continued to provide care, even under threat.
“As Kajiado residents, we are deeply unhappy with what happened,” Lenku added. “Moving forward, we will work closely with security agencies to secure our facilities and protect our people. We will not tolerate lawlessness in Kajiado.”
His remarks come amid national concern over escalating protests and their impact on public safety and infrastructure.
