Continued abductions, threats will fuel civil unrest, section of leaders warn
The government has been warned that continued repression, abductions and inflammatory rhetoric will only escalate the situation, with leaders calling for a return to democratic principles and dialogue.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has criticised the state’s heavy-handed response to the recent Gen Z-led protests, cautioning that the use of force and threats will intensify public outrage rather than contain it.
Mwangangi urged the government to abandon its confrontational stance and instead engage directly with young people to address their concerns.
“Abducting Kenyans and talking tough will not solve anything. In fact, it is doing the government more harm than good,” Mwangangi said on Saturday during an awards gala in Mavoko.
“Threatening Gen Z with shoot-to-kill orders is only going to harden them further.”
His remarks came hours after President William Ruto convened a high-level security meeting at State House following Wednesday’s deadly anti-Finance Bill protests. During the meeting, the President insisted that the government “will not be shaken” by ongoing demonstrations.
Mwangangi, however, warned that such rhetoric risks inflaming tensions.
“If the government does not change its tactics, more protests should be expected in the coming days. This is not just about the Finance Bill anymore—it’s about governance, accountability, and respect for citizens’ rights,” he said.
A joint report by Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) indicated that at least 19 people were killed in the nationwide protests, while more than 530 others, including protesters, journalists, and police officers, suffered injuries from gunshots, rubber bullets or physical assault.
The KNCHR also documented 15 enforced disappearances and 179 arrests in its preliminary findings following the June 25 protests.
Calling for a return to democratic values, Mwangangi said national leaders must choose dialogue over repression.
“Please engage with the youth. Sit down with them and listen, because talking tough will not help. And remember, do not lie to them. Give them what they want,” he said.
He stressed that the youth should not be treated as adversaries.
“These young people are not enemies of the state. They are citizens calling for a better Kenya. Leadership means carrying the aspirations of those you lead, not silencing them,” he said.
At the same time, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has issued a stern warning to individuals involved in criminal activities during the demonstrations, vowing they will face prosecution.
