The national government has warned the youth and other Kenyans expected to protest on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from engaging in violent activities.

In a statement on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura advised Gen Z, who have been the major proponents of the protests, to avoid unchecked demos.

Mwaura argued misinformation on social media has contributed to the recent protests in the country. However, the intentions were hijacked by other individuals for their own selfish gains.

“The misinformation, mainly on social media, also contributed to recent protests in the country, whereby unscrupulous individuals and formations hijacked them for selfish gains, with an aim of destabilizing our great country, Kenya,” Mwaura’s statement read in part.

“The Government urges the youth to ignore these calls to violence, as they offer little benefit to them and instead emphasize the importance of peace and stability. Young people should avoid unchecked protests, which could lead to further economic hardships and hinder their chances of gaining employment,” the statement added.

Recovery from protests

Mwaura further indicated that most parts of the country were recovering following the recent series of protests witnessed.

To allow for full recovery, Mwaura asked the protesters to channel their concerns through the right channels.

“It is important to note that our cities are recovering from recent protests and need the youth to help the country get back on track by respecting the rule of law and using legal channels to address grievances.

“The government calls upon the youth to join fellow Kenyans in demonstrating patriotism and observing peace as we embrace the changes that President William Ruto is making to unite the country for our greater good,” Mwaura appealed ahead of the Nane Nane protests.

Nane Nane protests

The protests dubbed Nane Nane March are being organised through social media by the youth who are outraged by President Ruto’s move to reappoint ten out of the 22 Cabinet Secretaries he had dismissed.

The demos are expected to take place on Thursday August 8, 2024, thus named Nane Nane.

The youth are also opposed to Ruto’s nomination of individuals from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to his cabinet.

However, President Ruto has urged Kenyans to embrace peace ahead of the Nane Nane protests.