Kaluma warns Gen Zs against protests, says they drive away investors
By Faith Lagat, July 26, 2025Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament (MP) George Kaluma has sounded the alarm over the impact of continued youth-led protests in Kenya, warning that they are scaring off investors and putting job opportunities at risk.
In a statement on his official X account on July 26, 2025, Kaluma remarked, “Youth bulge is not unique to Kenya. The riots you call demonstrations are chasing away investors and, with them, job opportunities.”
His comments come in the wake of renewed unrest across parts of the country, which he attributes to a shift from genuine activism to orchestrated criminal acts.
Kaluma had earlier on argued that the original Gen Z protest movement, which began in June 2024 in opposition to the proposed Finance Bill, had run its course after the bill was dropped.
He claimed that current unrest no longer represents the same civil energy but has instead been hijacked by elements intent on destabilising the country.
“The Gen Z movement died following the withdrawal of the Finance Bill, 2024! We now have a gang targeting Nairobi with riots disguised as Gen Z. Let the police deal with them firmly in accordance with the law,” he stated.
Civic dissent to criminality
The MP’s remarks mark a significant escalation in tone as he maintains that ongoing protests should no longer be viewed as a continuation of youth-led dissent. Instead, he described them as subversive acts being carried out under the guise of Gen Z activism.
On July 14, Kaluma asserted that the original movement was “conceived by civil society, implemented by the people, and encouraged by religious leaders and the media”—a far cry from what he now claims are violent and criminal gatherings.
He further noted that some individuals are manipulating young people to shield their destructive activities, particularly in Nairobi. Kaluma urged law enforcement agencies to differentiate between peaceful protestors and those engaging in violence, insisting that firm action is needed to restore order and investor confidence.
Consequences
Kaluma’s concerns are not limited to matters of security. He underscored the economic consequences of persistent unrest, citing the departure of investors from the Kenyan stock market, which hit a six-year low in March 2025.
The MP warned that in a country with a growing youth population, the loss of investor interest could have long-term ramifications on job creation and economic growth.
He also appealed to regional leaders and parents to shield children from being drawn into confrontations, commending the Nyanza, Rift Valley, and Coast regions for keeping minors off the streets.
“It is our sacred duty to protect our children from harm. Don’t play regional politics with the children!” he warned, singling out the Mt. Kenya region for what he termed as political posturing at the expense of youth safety.
Kaluma’s remarks add to the ongoing national debate on how to balance freedom of expression with the need for stability and economic recovery.