Saba Saba: Ruto calls for prayers, CS Ruku tells public servants to report to work

President William Ruto on Sunday urged Kenyans and religious leaders to pray for the country to avert violence and destruction of property ahead of Monday’s planned Saba Saba protests.

The President claimed a “demonic spirit” was sweeping across the country and called for spiritual intervention through prayers.

Kenya has witnessed deadly protests over the past year beginning with the Gen Z uprising on June 25, 2024, during which more than 60 people were killed. On the first anniversary of the protests, more than 17 people reportedly died in clashes between protesters and police.

Speaking at Kigari Teachers Training College in Embu County during celebrations to mark the 35th anniversary of the Embu Anglican Church Diocese, Dr Ruto reiterated the need for peace to allow his administration to deliver on its promises.

“We should pray for our country so that the evil spirit that causes violence and destruction of property may be defeated. We want a peaceful country so that we can implement development projects to transform lives,” the President added.

The protests, expected to peak today, mark the anniversary of the historic July 7, 1990 (Saba Saba) push for multiparty democracy.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku who accompanied the President in Embu warned public servants against failing to report to work, clarifying that Monday is not a public holiday.

“I call upon all workers to report to their offices. Public servants across the Republic of Kenya are expected to be at work by 8 am as per public service human resource policies and procedures,” Mr Ruku said.

He said that all government services must continue uninterrupted and pledged to make unannounced visits to offices to enforce compliance.

“I will conduct random spot checks and those absent will be required to explain why they should not face disciplinary action, including dismissal,” he said.

Speaking separately, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen directed the police to be ruthless with protesters who resort to violence and destruction of property during Monday’s Saba Saba protests.

However, he urged the police to deal calmly with those who observe the rule of law.

He called on the police to strengthen community policing to foster interaction between officers and the public.

Speaking at Mwanika Catholic Church in Meru County, Mr Murkomen appealed to those who will take part in Monday’s protests to uphold peace.

“The police should be as peaceful as doves when dealing with Kenyans. However, they should be ruthless with criminals and violent protesters who want to destroy our country. Those coming to protest on Monday should state their demands and go home,” the CS said.

He emphasised that the government will not tolerate the burning of police stations, courts and other government installations under the guise of protests.

“Most people are blaming the police, yet the demonstrators are often the source of the lawlessness. There are people using violence to play politics. Let us reject such leaders and only support those who present their agenda peacefully,” he said.