Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has raised concerns over the infiltration of criminal groups into the ongoing Gen Z-led protests, cautioning that acts of vandalism and violence threaten to undermine the legitimacy of peaceful demonstrations.
Speaking during a tour of Nakuru County, Kagwe reaffirmed that every Kenyan has a constitutional right to protest but strongly condemned the recent surge in property destruction witnessed during some rallies. He described the incidents as “acts of anarchy” that deviate from the lawful and peaceful intentions of the Gen Z movement.
“We must not allow criminals to exploit a just cause for their own gain,” Kagwe stated. “The destruction of property and disruption of livelihoods is not protest, it is criminality.”
With fresh nationwide Saba Saba demonstrations announced for July 7, Kagwe urged the public to remain vigilant and uphold civic responsibility by protecting both public and private property. He called on the Ministry of Interior to take firm action to ensure the protests are not hijacked by rogue elements seeking to destabilize the country.
“These criminal elements must not be allowed to operate under the cover of legitimate protests. Our national stability and economic well-being depend on how we manage this moment,” he added.
Kagwe’s remarks come amid a growing national debate over the direction and impact of the Gen Z-led movement, which has drawn widespread attention for its spontaneous, youth-driven calls for reform, transparency, and economic justice.
Written By Rodney Mbua
