Addressing the youth-led Gen Z movement, which has called for countrywide demonstrations on Wednesday, Raila emphasised the importance of lawful and non-violent civic expression.
Speaking in Mombasa on Tuesday afternoon, the ODM leader warned that demonstrators could find themselves on the wrong side of the law if they resort to violence or destruction of property.
“Article 37 of the Constitution guarantees Kenyans the right to assemble, demonstrate, and present petitions to authorities,” Raila said.
“But this does not give anyone the right to engage in lawlessness or destroy public and private property.”
This was the first time Raila publicly commented on the planned protests, which have stirred nationwide anxiety.
While he has previously affirmed that Kenyans do not need police permission to protest—as long as they inform the authorities for purposes of security—his latest remarks signalled a shift toward emphasising order and structure.
On Tuesday, Raila appeared to caution Gen Z protesters that they must not only remain peaceful but also be organised and disciplined in how they conduct themselves.
“Kenyans who are going to demonstrate tomorrow should follow the law and avoid actions that may put them at loggerheads with law enforcement officers,” he said.
Raila’s comments came just hours after the Catholic Bishops of Kenya issued a strongly worded pastoral letter urging the government to listen to the concerns of young people rather than suppress them.
“Young people deserve listening and support, not suppression,” the bishops said.
“These youth-led demonstrations reminded us of the power of civic consciousness and the rightful place of young people in shaping the country's direction.”
The bishops condemned the use of excessive force by security agencies, citing instances of harassment, abductions, and killings during previous protests.
They reminded the government that peaceful assembly is a
constitutional right and cautioned security officers against violating it.
