Public Service Cabinet Secretary Simon Ruku has issued a stern warning to government employees planning to skip work on Monday, July 7, amid the planned Saba Saba protests.
In a firm statement during the ACK Embu Diocese anniversary, CS Ruku directed all public servants to report to work as scheduled, warning that show cause letters will be issued to those absent without official leave.
“This is a working day. All government employees are expected to be at their workstations,” said Ruku. “Anyone who absents themselves without prior approval will face disciplinary action as per the Public Service Code of Regulations.”
His remarks come as the country braces for mass demonstrations called by civil society groups and youth movements to mark Saba Saba Day, a historic date associated with Kenya’s fight for multiparty democracy. Security agencies have already heightened patrols in major towns ahead of the Monday protests.
The CS emphasized that no directive has been issued by the government for a public holiday or suspension of work, and urged heads of departments to monitor staff attendance closely.
Ruku’s warning follows reports that some public servants were planning to stay away from work due to safety concerns and uncertainty around the planned nationwide protests. In Nairobi and Mombasa, some offices are reportedly preparing for reduced staff presence, with contingency plans being developed.
Meanwhile, the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has urged restraint from law enforcement, calling on police to uphold the constitutional right to peaceful protest.
Despite growing tension and public anxiety, CS Ruku maintained that “public service must continue uninterrupted.”
As of Sunday night, no exemptions had been announced — setting the stage for a potentially tense Monday across government offices.
