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Arrest those behind chaos, Mount Kenya MPs demand
A section of Mt Kenya MPs address the media in Naivasha on July 17, 2025.
What you need to know:
- More than 30 lawmakers want those responsible arrested and prosecuted.
- The MPs vowed to do everything possible to ensure such violence never happens again.
A section of Mount Kenya MPs allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration have demanded thorough investigations into the recent chaos that led to the destruction of property and loss of lives in the region.
The more than 30 lawmakers, who met at the Enashipai Resort in Naivasha on Thursday under the Mount Kenya Parliamentary caucus, want those responsible arrested and prosecuted.
What remains of the building that hosted Magunas Supermarket in Makutano town, Meru County. The building was set on fire by protesters on July 7, 2025.
"We demand thorough investigations into the chaos that led to loss of lives and destruction of property worth millions of shillings. Those found directly responsible must face the full force of the law,” a joint statement by the MPs who were led by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah said.
“Moreover, the sponsors and those who orchestrated the anarchy and violence must be unmasked and held accountable," the statement further read.
"There should be no sacred cows. Kenya is a democracy governed by the rule of law. No one is above the law. We can not allow a few people to hold our country hostage," the MPs said.
The MPs spoke days after chaos rocked the country, first during the June 25 protests, and on July 7, as the country marked the Saba Saba Day.
They claimed the violence and mayhem that have been witnessed in parts of the region recently were instigated by reckless and selfish politics.
Suspected looters outside one branch of County Supermarket during Saba Saba protests on July 7, 2025.
"We note with utter disgust,the attempted attacks on critical economic facilities mainly in the Mount Kenya region. These deplorable acts of arson and looting have destroyed businesses, that our people rely on, complicating the problem of youth unemployment and discouraging investors," said Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie.
“As we speak, families are mourning the loss of their loved ones. Businesses lie in ruins and people are nursing deep wounds, both visible and invisible. This is not the Kenya we want,” he said.
Saba Saba Day protests
“No cause, no political ambition, no grievance, however legitimate, should come at the cost of innocent lives. We stand with the mwananchi whose life has been rudely disrupted and their dignity trampled on, in the crossfire of political irresponsibility.”
The MPs converged in Naivasha to deliberate on the state of the country and evaluate the progress of development.
They vowed to do everything possible to ensure such violence never happens again. They said they remain confident in the direction the government is taking in terms of development and social well-being of the region.
Employees of Stage Matt Supermarket peep through the window at the store which was looted during Saba Saba protests on July 7, 2025.
"We the Mount Kenya Parliamentary caucus are steadfast and eternally vigilant in protecting the interests of the Mountain and the rights of our electorate. We are mandated, responsible, responsive and strategic leaders with a clear vision for the people we represent. Our agenda is development, peace and prosperity for our region and for Kenya," said Tharaka MP George Murugara.
"We will continue working hand in hand with the national government and all Kenyan communities to ensure every promise made to the people is kept. Despite the challenges we have faced and still face, we remain optimistic that with continued stability and focus, the pledges the Kenya Kwanza administration made will be delivered fully," said Mr Murugara.
"The projects to improve infrastructure, create jobs, lower the cost of living and uplift our farmers and businesses will materialize," he added.
The MPs called on the Mt Kenya residents to reject politics of hate, intimidation and destruction.
"We call on everyone to channel their frustrations and energies into constructive engagement and to safeguard the peace of our beloved country. Kenya is ours to build, not to burn. The Mount Kenya stands united with the rest of Kenya," added the MP.
During the recent Saba Saba anniversary protests, more than 30 people lost their lives, making it the highest tally of deaths in one day, according to the Kenya National Human Rights Commission.
Over 107 people were wounded nationwide during the Saba Saba protests. However, the Mount Kenya region was the most affected.
