Sakaja: Ojwang deserves justice, but there's no room for violence

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja  has condemned the recent destruction of property during protests in Nairobi, urging Kenyans to pursue justice through peaceful means, not violence.

Speaking during a women and youth empowerment event at Sambut Primary School in Kamagut Ward, Sakaja addressed the recent killing of media team associate Ojwang, describing it as a tragedy, but emphasised that the response must not descend into lawlessness.

“The killing of Ojwang is very unfortunate. He was a friend and occasionally worked with us in the media team. I have committed to helping his family. I will cover all burial expenses, offer his widow a job, and build rental houses for his father,” Sakaja said.

While affirming his personal support for the grieving family, Sakaja issued a stern warning to those exploiting the tragedy as a pretext for destruction.

“Even if we are angry, let’s not destroy our property. If we must demonstrate, let us do so peacefully. The next time anyone tries to destroy infrastructure, burn cars, steal from businesses, or cause chaos,” he warned.

Governor Sakaja revealed that police have already identified several individuals involved in the recent wave of destruction across Nairobi.

He assured the public that arrests would be made and accountability enforced.

“The Constitution allows peaceful demonstrations, not violence. We must protect our businesses. What happened will not be allowed to happen again,” he said.

Sakaja’s sentiments were echoed by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who also addressed the gathering and called for decisive action against those behind the violence.

“Nairobi will not become Mogadishu. We cannot allow this. Those burning county assets, destroying businesses, setting vehicles on fire, and vandalising infrastructure are not seeking justice — that is criminal behaviour, not a pursuit of justice,” Ichung’wah stated firmly.

Several Nairobi MCAs who accompanied the Governor at the event also denounced the violence and called on law enforcement to act swiftly.

“Don’t destroy what has taken us years to build. We will not allow this to continue — people losing their businesses and infrastructure being vandalised. Next time they try, we will ensure the law takes its course,” said Umoja MCA Mark Ronaldo Mugambi.

During the recent protests, critical public services such as lighting and sanitation infrastructure were damaged, while several business premises were looted by individuals masquerading as demonstrators.

Police have since launched investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice.