Governor Johnson Sakaja distances self, Nairobi County government from goons seen backing police during protests
Governor Johnson Sakaja has unequivocally rejected any association with Tuesday’s goons, condemning their involvement and criminal conduct.
Nairobi County has distanced itself from working with goons who disrupted Tuesday’s protests, insisting that the destruction of property and looting witnessed in the city were the actions of criminal elements and not peaceful demonstrators.
In a statement on Wednesday, Governor Johnson Sakaja said those behind the violence had been brought in from outside Nairobi and had no place in the city’s democratic space.
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Tuesday’s demonstrations, which were sparked by public outrage over the killing of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’, turned violent when individuals suspected to be state-linked goons joined police in repelling protesters in the CBD. Protesters had also called for the arrest of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.
By 11:00 am, demonstrators marching toward Central Police Station were confronted by rowdy youths armed with batons next to Jevanjee Gardens. Witnesses said the youths worked side-by-side with police officers to block the protesters.
“They are making it hard for us to do business because they come here and loot and rob people. We don’t want them to do that. If they want to protest, let them do so peacefully,” one of the armed youths said.
Shortly after, the same group could be seen urging police to support them as they pelted stones at the protesters. The police responded by lobbing tear gas canisters, escalating the chaos.
The situation quickly deteriorated, with several of the goons seen mugging passers-by in the backstreets of Nairobi. Some rode on motorbikes, while others chanted political slogans such as “Heshimu President, achana na Ruto” (respect the president, leave Ruto alone), revealing a clear partisan agenda that cast doubt on their spontaneity.
A disturbing incident occurred outside Imenti House on Moi Avenue, where a young man was cornered by two police officers and shot moments later, as onlookers watched in horror.
By 3:00 pm, most peaceful protesters had withdrawn from the streets, leaving behind the goons, who continued to roam the city centre unchecked.
In one video, the group is seen outside Nairobi’s City Hall, chanting, “Sakaja tumelinda jiji” (Sakaja, we have protected the city), appearing to declare allegiance to the governor.
Sakaja, however, unequivocally rejected any association with such groups, condemning their involvement and criminal conduct.
“We categorically dissociate ourselves from any gangs, militias, or politically sponsored groups that exploit demonstrations to engage in criminal activity,” he said.
The governor warned against using peaceful protests as a cover for lawlessness and urged police to take firm and fair action against all those responsible for looting and violence.
“These are criminal actions punishable by law and must be condemned by every peace-loving citizen. I call upon the National Police Service to act with firmness and fairness to identify, arrest, and prosecute all those responsible for acts of violence, vandalism, and theft,” he said.
Sakaja reminded citizens that the right to protest under Article 37 of the Constitution must be exercised peacefully and without infringing on the rights of others.
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“This right does not override the rights of others to work, to move freely, and to live in safety. The Constitution also mandates the police to protect public order and the rights of non-protesters,” he said.
He called on the public to make use of constitutional institutions such as Parliament, the Judiciary, and other legal platforms to air grievances instead of resorting to street violence.
“Let us uphold the Constitution. Let us protect life, property, and our shared future. Let us pursue peace and justice, without fear or favour,” he said.
He further condemned the fatal shooting of Boniface Kariuki, describing the incident as unacceptable in a democratic society. He called for swift and independent investigations, urging authorities to ensure full accountability.
“The tragic shooting of Boniface Kariuki by a police officer yesterday is deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democratic society. I call on all the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, independent investigation and ensure the responsible officer is held fully accountable,” he said.
Sakaja reaffirmed the county’s commitment to the Constitution, calling for police restraint and protection of human rights.
“Law enforcement must operate strictly within the bounds of the law, with restraint, professionalism, and unwavering respect for human rights,” he added.
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