As demonstrations continue to echo through Kenya’s streets, a senior government ally insists President William Ruto remains resolute. Senator Samson Cherargei of Nandi County has dismissed growing unrest as a disruption that will not deter the president’s economic and political agenda.
"President Ruto remains unbowed, unshaken, and more buoyant in delivering transformation in the country," Cherargei wrote Thursday on his official X account. "Kazi bila break"—Swahili for “work without a break.”
His remarks came a day after fresh demonstrations erupted in several towns, led mostly by young people marking the anniversary of last year’s deadly anti-finance bill protests. While many protests began peacefully, some later descended into violence, prompting arrests, injuries, and property damage.
Accusations and Allegations
Cherargei claimed that the unrest was no longer a matter of civic expression but an organised effort to create disorder.
"There was a deliberate move by some individuals to infiltrate peaceful protests and cause infrastructural destruction," he alleged, without naming those involved. He called on security agencies to investigate what he termed "the planners, financiers, and executors" of the chaos.
"The unfortunate events of yesterday were an act of lawlessness, impunity and abuse of law," he added. "The burning, killings, maiming, and looting of businesses must not go unpunished."
No independent evidence has yet been presented to confirm his claims, and protest organisers have insisted their intentions were peaceful.
“We are mourning our people. We’re not here to destroy,” said Brian Okoth, 22, one of the protestors in Kisumu. “The moment we march, they call us criminals.”
President Ruto’s Call for Lawful Dissent
President Ruto, speaking in Kilifi County on Wednesday, echoed the call for order.
“We must make sure that the demonstrations we hold are peaceful,” the president said, during the burial of the father of Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro. “The demonstrations should not lead to the destruction of property because we do not have any other country to go to if things get tough here.”
Ruto urged political leaders to set aside partisan divides and work together to promote peace and unity.
“We may be of different opinions and strategies, but we must have a nation first,” he said. “We must be united.”
Tensions Simmer Beneath Reform
Despite these calls for calm, the public mood remains tense. Critics argue that the administration has not adequately addressed economic pressures or youth frustration, with many pointing to perceived disconnects between policy promises and lived reality.
Cherargei, however, insists that the government’s agenda—including reforms in housing, agriculture, and healthcare—remains on track.
“The president is committed to transformation,” he said. “No amount of protest will change that.”
Whether that message will resonate with a restless public remains to be seen. For now, Kenya watches closely—its future still being written, one march and one statement at a time.