The Ministry of Trade and Industry has issued a strong warning about the negative effects of repeated protests on Kenya’s economy, as plans for another round of demonstrations on Monday, July 7—Saba Saba Day—gain momentum.
The protests aim to pressure President William Ruto to respond to the growing concerns and frustrations voiced by many Kenyans.
In a statement shared on his official X account on Saturday, July 5, Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui expressed concern over the trend of protests turning violent.
He warned that such actions not only disrupt businesses but also send the wrong message to potential international investors, discouraging them from doing business in the country.
Kinyanjui condemned the destruction of property witnessed during previous protests, describing it as completely unacceptable. He called on Kenyans to remain alert and avoid participating in activities that could lead to damage of property and disruption of economic activities.
“The right to protest is constitutionally protected, but it should never be taken over by criminal groups. Sadly, that’s what is happening more and more often. Business owners are now afraid—they fear looting and violence each time demonstrations are announced,” Kinyanjui stated.
He further pointed out that the repeated closure of businesses during demonstrations makes Kenya appear unstable and unsafe to foreign investors. “The cost of shutting down operations for several days due to protests portrays Kenya as an unreliable and risky destination for investment. I don’t believe any sensible Kenyan wants that kind of outcome,” he added.
Saba Saba Day holds historical significance as it marks the July 7, 1990, demonstrations that called for multiparty democracy and challenged the oppressive rule of then-President Daniel Arap Moi.
This year, political and civil groups are planning to use the day to express public discontent with President Ruto’s leadership.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, July 2, the National Alternative Alliance (NAA) announced that it would organize nationwide protests to mark the day. The group said that Kenyans are deeply frustrated by how the country is being governed, accusing the current administration of failing to deliver on its promises.
“We are planning Saba Saba Day protests because Kenyans are angry. The government has failed in every sector, and the only thing that seems to thrive is corruption,” the Alliance stated.
Meanwhile, following past incidents of violence and looting, some Nairobi business owners have already started taking precautionary steps to protect their shops and stalls.
Videos shared by Kenyans.co.ke show business people reinforcing their premises ahead of the expected protests, fearing a repeat of the chaos that took place during the July 25 demonstrations, which caused significant financial losses.
In response to the ongoing discussion, National Police Service spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga stated on Thursday, July 3, that the police had not yet received any official notification regarding the planned protests.
He reminded the public that for any protest to be lawful, organisers must first seek and obtain permission from the authorities.
Muchiri warned that demonstrations carried out without official clearance usually spiral into chaos, leading to the destruction of public and private property. “Let me clarify that, as of now, we have not received any formal request to hold protests. We will issue a public statement once an official application is made,” he said.
The government’s latest warning highlights rising tensions in the country as activists, opposition groups, and frustrated citizens prepare to commemorate a day historically linked to the fight for political freedom—now repurposed as a rallying point for holding the current leadership accountable.
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