Gachagua warns against use of force on Gen Z during planned Tuesday protests
By Mustafa Juma, April 20, 2026Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for restraint from security agencies ahead of planned Gen Z-led demonstrations expected on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, over rising fuel prices and cost-of-living concerns.
Speaking during an interview with K24 TV on Monday, April 20, 2026, Gachagua said young people have a constitutional right to peaceful protest and urged government officials to avoid any form of excessive force during the anticipated demonstrations.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader expressed support for the youth-led movement, saying he stands with young Kenyans who choose to take to the streets to express their grievances.
He warned security chiefs, including senior officials in government, against mishandling the protests.
Gachagua pointed out President William Ruto, his deputy Kithure Kindiki, and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, warning that the bloodshed that was witnessed during past Gen Z protests should not repeat itself.
“If Gen Zs decide that they want to take to the streets, they have my blessings. All I want to ask Murkomen, Kindiki, and William Ruto is that if these wonderful people decide to demonstrate against the high cost of fuel, please don’t kill them like you have done in the past,” Gachagua said.
Police warning
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud had issued guidelines on public demonstrations following rising tensions linked to increased fuel prices.
In a press brief on Friday, April 16, 2026, he stated that the Constitution of Kenya 2010 guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate, and present petitions but stressed that the right must be exercised within the law.
He noted that police facilitate lawful assemblies to ensure safety and order during public participation activities across the city.
Mohamud said organisers must notify police between three and 14 days before any planned demonstrations to allow for planning of traffic management, deployment, and public safety measures.
He stated that last-minute notices would not be accepted due to logistical constraints. “We operate strictly within the law, guided by the Public Order Act and the Constitution,” he said.
He added that police distinguish between peaceful protests and unlawful gatherings that disrupt order.
“There are those who come today and say tomorrow they want to protest. They will not have it. We don’t want disorder; we want order,” he stated. He further noted that the service has facilitated and protected 18 protests and processions in the month.