Kisii – Police in Kisii have issued a firm warning to protestors gathering in the town center, saying they will not allow destruction of property during today’s Saba Saba demonstrations.
Kisii County Police Commander Ronald Kirui addressed a group of youth wearing boda boda reflector jackets at the Capital Roundabout, where police had been deployed in large numbers. Kirui said the officers were under instruction to prevent any repeat of last month’s violent protests, which left businesses looted and property damaged.
“Women came here to trade and lost everything. A supermarket was ransacked. Today, we’re not going to stand by and watch that happen again,” said Kirui.
He urged residents to cooperate with the police and support efforts to maintain peace. “Let people go about their businesses. Our presence here is to ensure order,” he added.
In June 25, widespread protests led to extensive property damage in parts of the country. That unrest still weighs heavily on traders, many of whom have kept their shops closed across towns like Nyeri, Limuru, and Nakuru due to fears of renewed looting.
A spot check in Nairobi found most supermarkets and retail stores shut, with streets nearly deserted. Police sealed off major entry routes into the Central Business District, halting traffic and delaying commuters. Anti-riot officers were visible in key locations across the capital.
In Nyeri, tension remained high. Traders closed shop early as groups of youth lit bonfires and gathered in public spaces. “After what happened to Naivas supermarket last month, we didn’t want to take chances,” said one shop owner, who reinforced their storefront with metal bars.
Despite the unrest in other towns, Kisumu remained calm. Residents opened their shops, matatus operated as usual, and no major confrontations were reported. Although schools closed as a precaution, the city showed no signs of violence.
In Kondele, Obunga, and Nyalenda, police officers were on standby, but no incidents were reported. Some residents gathered quietly in public places to mark the 35th anniversary of Saba Saba Day, a national date of protest remembrance rooted in Kenya’s fight for multiparty democracy.
“Kisumu is peaceful today,” said Nyaori Nyang, a resident. “People chose maturity over mayhem. We’ve seen enough destruction in the past.”
Community leaders encouraged symbolic commemoration over street protests. Audi Ogada, Chairperson of the Kisumu Residents Association Voice, urged youth to reject violence and political manipulation.
“In democracies, remembrance can take many forms. Lay flowers, pray, reflect but don’t destroy,” said Ogada. “We need a new way forward.”
National Police have also issued a public statement warning against destruction, looting, and access to protected government facilities. The service said any violation of the law would be dealt with swiftly and firmly.
As Saba Saba Day continues, the contrast between towns like Kisii and Kisumu reflects the divided mood of the nation tense in some areas, calm in others but all under the shadow of recent unrest and ongoing calls for change.
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