Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has distanced himself and the county government from criminal groups accused of infiltrating recent protests to loot and vandalise property in the city.

In a statement on Wednesday, Sakaja said the violent incidents witnessed during Tuesday’s protests were the work of “hired goons brought in from outside” and had nothing to do with peaceful demonstrators.

He condemned the destruction of public and private property and called on young people not to allow themselves to be used by individuals who seek to exploit democratic rights to commit crimes.

“I therefore strongly condemn those who seek to take advantage of legitimate protests to incite violence and destabilise our city. We categorically dissociate ourselves from any gangs, militias, or politically sponsored groups that exploit demonstrations to engage in criminal activity,” Sakaja said.

He affirmed that Kenyans have a constitutional right to assemble, demonstrate and picket, but added that this right must be exercised in a way that respects the freedom and safety of others. Sakaja stressed that law enforcement has a duty to protect public order and nonprotesters.

“I encourage all Kenyans to make use of our democratic institutions; Parliament, the Judiciary and other legal avenues to voice their concerns without resorting to violence. These institutions exist to safeguard your rights, without putting innocent lives or livelihoods at risk,” he said.

Sakaja's remarks came hours after chaos rocked parts of Nairobi, following protests against police brutality sparked by the death in custody of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang.

Armed individuals disrupted the peaceful demonstrations, looting shops, mugging pedestrians and destroying infrastructure in broad daylight. Police promised to crack down on those behind the attacks, but were criticised for their inaction during the incidents.

One police officer was captured on video shooting a face mask vendor in the head outside Imenti House as crowds were being dispersed on Moi Avenue. Sakaja condemned the shooting, calling it “deeply troubling and unacceptable.”

“I call on all the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, independent investigation and ensure the responsible officer is held fully accountable,” he said.

He also urged the National Police Service to arrest and prosecute those involved in the recent acts of violence, vandalism and theft, saying it was crucial to deliver justice and prevent further unrest.

“Businesses built over years of sacrifice have been vandalised, and public infrastructure paid for by taxpayers destroyed. Already, Nairobi has suffered losses estimated in the billions. Businesses have shut down, jobs have been disrupted, and livelihoods destroyed,” he said.