Nairobi women representative Esther Passaris speaking during a press briefing on the anticipated protests ahead of the Saba Saba day at Boulevard hotel, Nairobi on July 6, 2025/LEAH MUKANGAINairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has raised concerns that the ongoing protests in the country may be receiving support from individuals outside Kenya.
Speaking on Sunday during a press conference, Passaris claimed she had received information from what she described as credible sources, cautioning those allegedly backing the demonstrations to reconsider their actions, as Kenyans are left to bear the consequences.
“From the messages I have received, there are people funding these movements from outside the country. Remember, you live abroad while Kenyans here are left to face the aftermath,” she said.
Passaris urged Kenyans to uphold peace ahead of the planned Saba Saba Day protests, which are scheduled for July 7.
The annual event commemorates the country’s historic fight for multiparty democracy but has taken on fresh significance this year amid growing calls for government accountability and economic reforms, especially from a youth-led digital movement.
The legislator warned that inciting people to invade government premises could lead to further loss of life and destruction. She called for dialogue as a means of addressing grievances.
“Let us work together and resolve our challenges through dialogue. If former Prime Minister Raila Odinga could do it with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and he can do it with President William Ruto, it shows that peace and prosperity for Kenya are possible,” she said.
Passaris emphasized the need for national unity, urging leaders and citizens alike to prioritize the country’s stability.
She was joined by other leaders who echoed her appeal for calm and warned young people against being misled by individuals with political interests.
The lawmakers noted that while protests can be a legitimate form of expression, recent demonstrations have sometimes escalated into violence, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of businesses, and heightened ethnic tensions.
“What began as peaceful expressions of concern have at times turned into violent confrontations. Shops have been looted, businesses destroyed, and lives tragically lost,” the leaders said in a joint statement.
The legislators called on youth to remain vigilant and avoid being exploited for political gain. They also urged their colleagues in leadership to exercise restraint and focus on fostering national cohesion.
Among those present at the press conference were Nominated Senators Tabitha Mutinda and Karen Nyamu, Makadara MP George Aladwa, and Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor (Jalang’o).
