Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has called for the immediate arrest of individuals involved in vandalism and looting during recent protests in the city, saying criminal acts must not be hidden behind the right to demonstrate.
Speaking during an interdenominational prayer service at Friends Comprehensive School in Kivaywa, Kakamega County, Sakaja expressed concern over violent elements infiltrating otherwise peaceful protests in Nairobi.
“I want to speak to the youth of Nairobi: don’t allow yourselves to be used. Demonstrating peacefully is your right, but destroying property is a crime — and it won’t be allowed,” he said.
The Governor revealed that several suspects had already been captured on CCTV destroying public infrastructure and private property.
“We have CCTV footage showing those responsible. I call on the police to arrest them. This is no longer about protest — it is criminal behaviour. Our Victorian street lights and dustbins were vandalized. Shop owners are opening their businesses to find them looted. That is a crime, and it will be treated as one,” Sakaja stated.
He assured peaceful demonstrators of protection but warned that the county government would not tolerate those using the protests as a cover for violence.
Sakaja also addressed the tragic death of Albert Ojwang, a media team associate who died under unclear circumstances during a protest in Nairobi.
“Albert was a friend and worked with our media team. We want justice, not revenge. CCTV from Mbagathi Hospital shows he was already dead on arrival. I thank President Ruto for ordering an investigation. The responsible officers must be held accountable — there will be no sacred cows,” he said.
His remarks follow growing calls for justice and accountability over recent unrest and Ojwang’s death. President William Ruto earlier ordered a full investigation into the incident.
Governor Sakaja reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and democratic freedoms, while warning that those who break the law will face consequences.
“We will not allow the destruction of a city that has been built through sacrifice. Justice must be done — for Ojwang and for all Nairobi residents,” he said.
Sakaja also urged Kenyans and national leaders to put aside political differences and focus on unity and development. He warned that those who isolate themselves from dialogue risk being left behind in national progress.
Highlighting key infrastructure projects, Sakaja praised the upcoming Rironi–Mau Summit highway project as a major step forward.
“Let’s support the President’s development agenda. If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu. We don’t want to be left behind. People in this region have suffered for too long, especially during holidays. Thanks to President Ruto, we are getting a three-lane highway. Construction will begin soon.”
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