Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi during an awards gala in Mavoko, Machakos county on June 28, 2025. /SCREENGRABMachakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has sharply criticised the government's heavy-handed response to the Gen Z-led protests.
He warned that enforced disappearances and threats will only intensify public dissent rather than quell it.
In its preliminary report following the June 25 protests, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) said it documented 15 enforced disappearances and 179 arrests.
Speaking during an awards gala in Mavoko, Mwangangi urged the government to abandon its confrontational approach and instead engage directly with the youth to address their grievances.
“Abducting Kenyans and talking tough will not solve anything. In fact, it is doing the government more harm than good,” Mwangangi said.
“Threatening Gen Z with shoot-to-kill orders is only going to harden them further.”
His remarks came just hours after President William Ruto convened a high-level meeting with security chiefs at State House, Nairobi, in the aftermath of the deadly protests that rocked the country on Wednesday.
The President declared that the government “will not be shaken” by the demonstrations.
But Mwangangi said such an approach was misguided and risked inflaming an already volatile situation.
“If the government does not change its tactics, more protests should be expected in the coming days,” he warned.
“This is not just about the Finance Bill anymore—it’s about governance, accountability, and respect for citizens' rights.”
At least 19 people were killed during Wednesday’s nationwide protests, according to a joint report by Amnesty International and the KNCHR.
Over 530 others, including protesters, journalists, and police officers, were injured—many from gunfire, rubber bullets, or physical assault.
Mwangangi called on national leaders to return to the principles of democracy by engaging with citizens, particularly the youth, rather than resorting to repression.
“Please engage with the youth. Sit down with them and listen—because talking tough will not help. And remember, do not lie to them. Give them what they want,” he emphasised.
He added that Kenya’s democratic foundations depend on open dialogue, transparency, and mutual respect between leaders and the people.
“These young people are not enemies of the state. They are citizens calling for a better Kenya. Leadership means carrying the aspirations of those you lead, not silencing them,” he said.
