Mombasa, Tharaka Nithi governors praise peaceful protests in their counties

A youthful anti-riot police officer is mobbed by friendly Gen Z protesters during June 25 commemoration protests. /ENOS TECHE

Governors from across the political divide have commended residents in their respective counties for conducting peaceful demonstrations during Wednesday’s commemoration of the first anniversary of the Gen Z-led protests.

In separate statements issued on Tuesday evening, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Shariff Nassir and Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki hailed their residents for upholding calm while exercising their constitutional right to protest.

In Mombasa, Nassir thanked the people of Mombasa County for their “commitment to calm and civic expression,” which he said reflects the maturity of Kenya’s democratic culture.

“Across Mombasa Island, the mainland, and in our sub-counties, the day has passed without major incident—proof that peaceful engagement is possible even as we raise our voices for justice and equity,” Nassir said in the statement.

The ODM deputy party leader reaffirmed Mombasa County’s commitment to defending rights and freedoms enshrined in the Constitution, adding: “We will continue to speak out—peacefully and resolutely—against any form of injustice, oppression, or discrimination.”

In a similar tone, Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki extended his gratitude to residents for maintaining peace in major towns across the county during the day of action.

“Our streets in Chogoria, Chuka, Marimanti and all major towns remained calm throughout the day, thanks to our cohesive and dedicated communities,” Njuki said, describing the citizens as vigilant and committed to human rights.

“Tharaka Nithi will also express constructive dissent to any form of political oppression and human rights abuse,” he added.

Their remarks followed an earlier statement by Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, who also praised residents for conducting themselves with restraint and discipline during the protests.

Nyong’o said the peaceful nature of the Kisumu demonstrations showed the city’s commitment to dialogue and democratic expression.

The Gen-Z anniversary protests were held in several parts of the country to honour victims of police brutality and push for greater accountability.

While some towns witnessed tense confrontations between police and demonstrators, counties such as Mombasa, Kisumu and Tharaka Nithi stood out for their calm.

The governors’ statements mark a rare moment of unity in acknowledging the right to peaceful assembly and reaffirming a shared stance against injustice, as Kenya continues to grapple with calls for reform from its youth.