Gachagua Backs Gen Z Protests and Calls for Police Restraint

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has backed planned Gen Z demonstrations scheduled for Tuesday and called on security agencies to exercise restraint in their response.

Speaking during a televised interview on K24, Gachagua said the protests are a legitimate exercise of constitutional rights. He urged security agencies to avoid using force against demonstrators.

He described young people as central to the country’s future and praised their civic engagement. “The Gen Z are good children… they are the saviour of this country,” he said, adding that he would support their decision to take part in peaceful protests.

Gachagua also encouraged young people to channel their concerns into the electoral process, saying meaningful change would ultimately come through voting in the next election. The planned demonstrations come amid continued public concern over the cost of living, with fuel prices among the key issues raised by protesters. 

Gachagua said recent adjustments in fuel prices had not gone far enough to address public frustration. He criticised the handling of previous protests, alleging that some demonstrations had been infiltrated by individuals working with police to loot property and discredit protestors. 

He warned against a repeat of what he described as excessive use of force against demonstrators. The government has denied such allegations, maintaining that security operations are intended to protect public order and property. Human rights groups, however, have repeatedly raised concerns over the use of force during protests.