Trade CS Kinyanjui cautions against protest violence, warns of economic fallout
CS Kinyanjui acknowledged that the right to protest is enshrined in Kenya’s 2010 Constitution but insisted that it must be exercised responsibly and without destruction.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui has expressed concern over the increasing trend of violent protests ahead of the Saba Saba Day demonstrations slated for Monday, July 7, 2025.
In a statement released on the evening of Saturday, July 5, CS Kinyanjui acknowledged that the right to protest is enshrined in Kenya’s 2010 Constitution but insisted that it must be exercised responsibly and without destruction.
“We cannot protect the right to picket while ignoring other constitutional protections. When protests turn destructive, causing loss of life or damage to property, they violate the very principles they claim to defend,” Kinyanjui stated.
He warned that such demonstrations have made it difficult for businesses to operate, with many forced to close repeatedly over safety concerns. This, he said, is pushing investors to reconsider Kenya as a viable destination.
“Businesses are shutting down almost every week. Owners are living in constant fear of looting or damage. If this continues, capital will flee, and economic growth will suffer,” he added.
The CS stressed that while the right to protest must be upheld, it cannot be allowed to spiral into lawlessness. He urged Kenyans to reflect on the broader consequences of repeated unrest.
“This cycle of disruption and fear does not help anyone. It portrays Kenya as unstable and unfriendly to investors. No rational person would want that outcome,” he noted.
Kinyanjui also backed calls for constructive dialogue to address grievances while safeguarding property and public order.
“Let’s pause and consider the direction we’re heading. If we keep fuelling this downward spiral, the entire nation will bear the cost,” he said.
His remarks come as Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris pushes the Public Order (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The proposed legislation seeks to establish designated protest zones and empower the Interior Cabinet Secretary and county governments to regulate demonstration sites — a move already facing opposition from civil society groups and some political leaders.
