Kindiki pleads with protesters not to burn the country but to embrace dialogue

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki made a passionate appeal to Kenyans to choose dialogue and peace over chaos, as nationwide Saba Saba demonstrations rocked several towns across the country.

Speaking on Monday, July 7, 2025, during a public engagement hours after protests erupted in areas of the country, Kindiki cautioned against the growing tide of street unrest, which he said threatens the peace and stability Kenya has worked hard to maintain.

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“I plead with you, fellow countrymen,” Kindiki said. “We cannot build this country through chaos, through incitement, and through violence. We must learn to resolve our national problems through consultations and discussions.”

The Deputy President repeated his call for non-violence multiple times during the speech, emphasising that lasting change cannot be achieved through destruction. “There is nothing more precious than peace and stability,” he added.

Kindiki’s remarks came amid a day marked by clashes between police and protesters, particularly in Nairobi and its outskirts. In Kangemi, one person was reportedly shot during a confrontation with police.

Protests

Protesters in Kiserian lit bonfires and engaged anti-riot officers in running battles, while parts of Nairobi remained locked down by heavily armed police officers.

Despite government insistence that Monday was a normal working day, several businesses remained closed and roads leading to the Central Business District were barricaded, prompting public frustration over mixed messaging from state officials.

Kindiki’s message sought to strike a more conciliatory tone, in contrast to earlier warnings from other leaders. While acknowledging citizens’ constitutional right to protest, he maintained that dialogue and lawful engagement are the only viable ways to build the country.

“This country belongs to all of us,” he said. “Let us protect it by choosing peaceful means. Violence will only tear us apart.”

The Saba Saba demonstrations, now in their 35th year, continue to serve as a rallying call for reforms. But this year’s protests led largely by youth disillusioned with the state of the economy and governance have raised urgent questions about how the government chooses to listen and respond.