Moses Kuria hails Murkomen over Saba Saba operation

Senior advisor in President William Ruto’s Council of Economic Advisors, Moses Kuria, has drawn sharp reactions following a controversial statement he made regarding the government’s response to the July 7 Saba Saba demonstrations.

His comment was directed at Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, seemingly praising the security operation during the protest.

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“No Gen Z died today. Only criminal looters. Well done @kipmurkomen. Ensure zero Gen Z and maximum criminal fatalities,” Kuria wrote in a post on X.

At least 11 people were killed during Monday’s anti-government protests, with over 560 arrested across the country. Human rights organisations have condemned the police response, accusing officers of using excessive force and even collaborating with criminal gangs to target demonstrators.

The protests, largely led by young Kenyans, often referred to as Gen Z, were meant to mark the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba movement, which in 1990 helped push Kenya towards multiparty democracy. Demonstrators were calling for good governance, accountability, and justice for victims of police brutality.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) said many of the victims died from gunshot wounds. The group has also accused security officers of abductions, beatings, and operating in plainclothes and unmarked vehicles.

Despite these reports, Kuria dismissed concerns over the police conduct.

Protests turn violent nationwide

Meanwhile, several regions, including Nairobi, Nakuru, Kiambu, Meru and Eldoret, witnessed clashes between protesters and police. Fires were lit, roads barricaded, and in some towns, properties looted or destroyed.

In Meru’s Makutano area, a supermarket was burned down, while in Ol Kalou, one protester was shot dead.

Raila Odinga, who was arrested during the original Saba Saba protests in 1990, criticised the police for acting with impunity. He also called for urgent dialogue.

Despite roadblocks and a heavy police presence, Gen Z demonstrators insisted on making their voices heard. Their message remains clear: they want a government that listens, protects, and respects their rights.