Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has strongly condemned the recent wave of looting and vandalism witnessed during demonstrations, saying that while the right to protest is protected, it must not come at the cost of lives and livelihoods.

Speaking during a fundraiser at Mathare North SDA Church on Sunday, June 29, the governor reflected on the tragic events of the past week.

“Last week, we witnessed shocking acts of vandalism in various towns, targeting the business community. We believe in democracy and the right to demonstrate but democracy is not chaos, it is not violence, it is not anarchy,” Sakaja reiterated.

He emphasized that the city will protect the rights of all citizens especially the youth but made it clear that destruction of property and violence will not be tolerated.

“We value our youth and their rights. But those causing chaos must be held accountable. Let’s build a country that can thrive and do business. We can restore property, but we cannot bring back lives. Life, once lost, is gone forever,” he said.

The Governor appealed to church leaders and citizens to help in identifying perpetrators. Addressing Pastor Omollo, Sakaja requested a dedicated number to which members of the public could send CCTV footage or photos of vandals to aid in investigations and arrests.

He also expressed dismay at the destruction of public infrastructure including floodlights, dustbins, and business premises during protests.

“We saw people vandalizing dustbins, floodlights, businesses, and public infrastructure. How is that your right? We cannot destroy what has been built for all of us. That is not protest that is destruction,” he said.

Governor Sakaja affirmed that his administration, in partnership with MCAs, has been working hard to uplift the city’s infrastructure and services efforts he said must not be undone through acts of violence.

“Let us be builders, not destroyers. Nairobi belongs to all of us,” he concluded.