Religious leaders in Nyandarua County have strongly condemned the recent destruction of public property during a Gen Z-led protest, urging the government to embrace dialogue as a means of resolving the current political and social stalemate.
Speaking after touring the scene where 26 Nyandarua County government vehicles were torched and property worth millions of shillings reduced to ashes, the clergy called for swift investigations and the prosecution of those responsible.
Led by Nyandarua Inter-Faith Council Chair, Archbishop Josam Kariuki, the religious leaders expressed concern over the deteriorating situation and cautioned against provocative remarks by senior government officials.
Archbishop Kariuki condemned recent comments by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, describing them as reckless and dangerous amid rising national tensions. He said that directives such as “shoot to kill” only serve to escalate conflict and deepen animosity between police officers and the already agitated youth.
Kariuki called on the government to prioritize meaningful engagement with young people to find a peaceful and lasting resolution to their grievances.
His sentiments were echoed by Rt. Rev. Maj. (Rtd.) Bishop Samson Gachathi of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), Nyahururu Diocese, who emphasized the importance of listening to the concerns raised by the youth. “While we condemn the actions of those who participated in the wanton destruction of property, we also call on our leaders to lend a listening ear to the voices of the youth,” said Bishop Gachathi.
He added that the church was ready to offer itself as a platform for dialogue and reflection to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The bishop further announced plans to organize seminars and youth forums focusing on mental health, in a bid to restore hope among the youth and guide them toward constructive action.
The Wednesday protest, held to mark the anniversary of last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, turned violent in parts of Nyandarua, resulting in the burning of 41 county and national government vehicles, the destruction of offices, and the loss of more than 1,000 national identity cards.
Among the affected were five grounded vehicles and 18 county government motorcycles that were set ablaze during the chaos.
