The Ministry of Trade has raised alarm over the possible economic consequences of the planned Saba Saba protests set for Monday, July 7.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui warned that while Kenyans have a constitutional right to protest, recurring demonstrations, especially those that turn violent, are putting the country’s economy at risk.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Kinyanjui said past protests had been infiltrated by criminal elements, leading to destruction of property, business disruption, and loss of investor confidence.
“Business owners are living in constant fear of looting and chaos, the cost of shutting down operations for days just to accommodate protests portrays Kenya as an unstable and risky destination for investors,” said Kinyanjui.The CS urged the public to exercise their rights responsibly, noting that the growing trend of violent demonstrations is not only hurting small traders but also undermining efforts to attract foreign capital.
The Saba Saba protests, named after the historic July 7, 1990, movement that pushed for multi-party democracy, are being revived this year as a rallying cry to pressure President William Ruto’s government to address the concerns of ordinary Kenyans.
However, the ministry insists that economic recovery cannot withstand repeated disruptions.
“No right-thinking Kenyan wants to see businesses destroyed or jobs lost,” Kinyanjui added, calling for vigilance and restraint ahead of Monday’s protests.
