Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has claimed that recent protests across the country are being influenced and funded by foreign actors, just a day before fresh demonstrations are expected on Saba Saba Day, Monday, July 7.

Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi on Sunday, Passaris, who was flanked by Makadara MP George Aladwa and nominated senators Tabitha Mutinda and Karen Nyamu, said there is growing evidence that some of those pushing the protest agenda are operating from outside the country.

“I’ve seen messages suggesting that some of those pushing these protests are operating from outside Kenya. Foreigners are funding movements that are putting our people in harm’s way,” she said.

Passaris warned that while those behind the unrest stay safely abroad, it is young people in Kenya who end up facing harm during the demonstrations.

“You’re calling for institutions to be stormed from the comfort of your homes abroad, but it’s our young people and struggling families here who face the bullets,” she stated.

She also criticised the local media for what she described as irresponsible reporting, accusing some outlets of deepening national divisions through sensational headlines.

“Some headlines are fanning the flames. I’ve already raised concerns with media houses about how they’re handling this,” she said.

While supporting the right to protest, she urged demonstrators to remain peaceful during Monday’s Saba Saba events.

“It’s okay to take to the streets it’s a democratic right. But let it be peaceful. That is my hope and prayer for tomorrow,” she said.

Passaris appealed to Kenya’s youth, especially Gen Z, to consider engaging the government rather than rejecting dialogue. She pointed to past political negotiations as an example of how peace can be achieved even in tense times.

“If Raila Odinga, our party leader, could sit down with both Uhuru Kenyatta and now William Ruto, then it shows we can all find common ground for the sake of peace,” she added. “Raila has always acted in the country’s best interest let’s take the same path.”

Her remarks come amid growing tension ahead of the Saba Saba anniversary, a day that commemorates Kenya’s pro-democracy struggle.

This year, the day carries renewed energy following youth-led protests throughout June, which began with calls for justice after the death of Albert Ojwang and intensified with demands for the resignation of Deputy IG Eliud Lagat.

The protests culminated on June 25, when demonstrators remembered those killed during last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. With the Saba Saba commemoration expected to draw thousands, activists have vowed to maintain pressure on the government to push for accountability, reforms, and justice.