The National Cohesion and Integration Commission has condemned the deadly violence and widespread destruction witnessed during the recent anti-government demonstrations, warning that no amount of frustration should justify bloodshed or lawlessness.

NCIC Chairperson Dr Samuel Kobia, addressing the media on Tuesday described the unrest witnessed during the June 25 and July 7 protests as a painful reminder of the growing disillusionment among Kenya’s youth, particularly Generation Z, who he said feel “excluded, unheard, and increasingly disillusioned.”

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and the injuries sustained by both civilians and law enforcement officers. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and communities mourning their loved ones,” said Kobia.

The commission said it was alarmed by the death toll and scale of destruction, describing the protests as a wake-up call for the nation to urgently address the root causes of youth anger and mistrust.

According to police data, eleven civilians were killed and 114 others injured in the Saba Saba protests, while 52 officers were also hurt.

Authorities reported extensive damage to 208 vehicles, including police, government, and civilian cars, and confirmed the arrest of 567 individuals linked to acts of lawlessness during the unrest.

Kobia said the current crisis stems from years of deep-seated grievances among young people over high unemployment, economic hardship, unfulfilled promises, and weak institutions.

“These are not isolated sentiments—they are widespread and valid, and they must be urgently acknowledged and addressed,” he said.

To address these underlying frustrations, NCIC has been rolling out the “Transgenerational Conversations: The Quest for Better Governance and Accountability” initiative—an ongoing nationwide dialogue platform launched in September 2024 to promote mutual understanding between generations.

The dialogue forums bring together voices from four age groups—Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Z—to discuss solutions to Kenya’s challenges.

Among the key participants in previous events were freedom fighter Gitu wa Kahengeri, former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, rights defender Njeri Kabeberi, and young Kenyans from across the country.

“The unrest being experienced is a loud and painful signal,” said Kobia. “Kenya’s history shows that each generation, predominantly in their twenties, has stood up to confront the challenges of their time. Now more than ever, the older generation must guide and counsel the youth.”

Through partnerships with organisations like the Centre for Multiparty Democracy, NCIC has already initiated People’s Dialogue Forums in counties such as Nairobi.

Kobia urged institutions of higher learning, county governments, the private sector, civil society, the media, faith groups and especially Gen Z to actively join these discussions and help shape inclusive governance.

He noted that early sessions of the Transgenerational Conversations had begun exposing key national issues such as youth exclusion, economic injustice, mistrust between generations, and governance failures.

“This is a nationwide initiative aimed at providing a safe, inclusive and respectful platform for Kenyans of all ages to engage in open and constructive discussions,” he said.

“Young people bring energy, innovation and vision. Older generations bring experience, wisdom and historical context. It is only through genuine intergenerational dialogue that we can rebuild trust, restore hope and develop sustainable solutions.”

NCIC also condemned the excessive force used by some security personnel during the protests, as well as the destruction of property and attacks on police officers. “All actors—whether state or non-state—must uphold the right to life, dignity and peaceful assembly always,” said Kobia.

He urged political, religious and civic leaders not to exploit youth frustrations for personal or political gain, but to work together to mentor and empower the next generation.

“It is time to turn protests into platforms for progress, and frustrations into fuel for reform,” he said. “Kenya’s meaningful healing will not come through confrontation but through genuine conversations.”

Kobia concluded by reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to peace and inclusive dialogue: “We choose peace. We choose dialogue. We choose Kenya.”