Business activities in Nyeri town continued normally on Saba Saba Day, with residents condemning acts of violence and calling for peaceful political engagement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Shops remained open and public transport services operated without disruption as residents went about their daily activities, despite heightened attention surrounding the commemoration of the historic July 7, 1990 Kamukunji rally.
A visible presence of security officers in the town offered reassurance to traders and customers who had anticipated possible demonstrations following reports of planned Saba Saba activities in various parts of the country.
However, some traders said uncertainty surrounding possible protests affected business, with reduced customer numbers reported during the day.
Esther Wangui, a green grocer in Nyeri town, said business was slower than usual as some customers stayed away fearing disruptions.
“On a normal day, I would have served many customers, but today business has been slow because people feared there could be demonstrations. We are against demonstrations that are infiltrated by goons who destroy what hardworking Kenyans have built. Citizens should remain peaceful and express their democratic choices through the ballot,” she said.
Peter Mbuthia, a clothes trader in Nyeri Central Business District, attributed rising cases of hooliganism witnessed in parts of the country to youth unemployment and frustrations caused by the high cost of living.
Mbuthia condemned recent incidents where suspected goons attacked motorists in areas including Pangani in Nairobi and Keumbu in Kisii, leading to loss of life and destruction of property. He urged young people not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to cause chaos.
“Young people should not allow themselves to be influenced by politicians to cause chaos and disrupt political gatherings. The incident in Keumbu should be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible held accountable. We condemn such acts because they only bring destruction of property and loss of lives,” he said.
Jane Njeri, who operates an eatery in Nyeri town, warned that continued political violence and incitement could undermine public confidence in the electoral process by discouraging citizens from participating in elections.
She called on political leaders, security agencies and relevant institutions to promote peace and ensure individuals are held accountable for actions and statements that could fuel violence.
“Political leaders should urge their supporters to remain peaceful despite political differences. They should also avoid inciting young people to engage in violence and destruction of property, which often results in loss of life and livelihoods,” she said.
Charles Wachira, a Nyeri resident, echoed the concerns, warning that unchecked political violence and a growing culture of hooliganism could negatively affect democratic participation.
He urged citizens to uphold peace, noting that stability was essential for economic growth and national development.
“If political violence continues unchecked, it will only end up discouraging voters from participation in their democratic process of electing their preferred leaders. Political leaders, security agencies and all citizens have a responsibility to promote peaceful coexistence and reject violence at all costs,” Wachira said.
Nyeri bodaboda riders’ chairperson Ngunjiri Wambui encouraged young people to register as voters and participate in elections instead of engaging in activities that harm the economy and innocent citizens.
“If citizens want change, they should register as voters and elect leaders of their choice instead of engaging in activities that harm the economy and innocent people,” he said.
Saba Saba Day commemorates the July 7, 1990 Kamukunji rally organised by opposition figures including Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia to demand the restoration of multiparty democracy.
The rally triggered clashes between opposition supporters and security officers, resulting in deaths and arrests as the country agitated for political reforms that later contributed to the return of multiparty politics.
By Samuel Maina/Stephen Nderito
