Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged Kenyans to stay at home ahead of the planned Gen Z anniversary protests scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, saying the move would help safeguard lives while sending a strong message to the government.
Speaking on Tuesday, June 23, Gachagua alleged that the government was planning to deploy criminal gangs to infiltrate the demonstrations and target peaceful protesters.
He appealed to private motorists and public service vehicle (PSV) operators to keep off the roads during the protests, arguing that doing so would reduce the risk of exposing themselves and their passengers to violence.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Photo: Courtesy.
Gachagua maintained that staying away from the demonstrations should not be interpreted as cowardice but rather as a strategic decision aimed at preserving the lives of young Kenyans whom he described as critical to the country’s future.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader also called on business owners across the country to close their premises for the day and make arrangements to protect their property from criminal elements who often exploit protests to loot and vandalise businesses.
According to Gachagua, a nationwide stay-at-home protest would have a greater impact than demonstrations that end in violence, destruction of property and loss of life.
He argued that bringing economic activity to a halt would send a powerful message both locally and internationally.
The former deputy president further insisted that his appeal was not a sign of surrender but a call for restraint, saying the push for political change should not come at the expense of human life.
He urged Kenyans to remain patient and channel their frustrations through the ballot in the 2027 General Election, maintaining that the country’s leadership can be changed through constitutional means.
