Protests Erupt in Machakos After Comedian Sammy Kioko Beaten and Arrested in Machakos

Hundreds of Gen‑Zs marched to Machakos County Headquarters on Wednesday, demanding answers and justice after comedian Sammy Kioko was beaten and arrested during a protest over unpaid county tenders.

The demonstrations disrupted parts of Machakos town and Mlolongo, as youth groups pressed the county government to address the issue directly.

The protest followed Kioko’s detention on March 31, when he and fellow comedian Tom Daktari staged a peaceful demonstration outside the Machakos County Finance Offices to demand payment for work they say the county owes them.

Witnesses and online videos showed Kioko being wrestled to the ground by officers before being taken into custody, prompting widespread anger.

Protesters Speak Out

As the crowd rallied, many Gen‑Zs carried signs and chanted calls for accountability.

“Sammy Kioko has been beaten and arrested by county askaris. This is the highest level of impunity shown to people demanding their payment,” one protester said, underscoring frustrations over how the situation was handled.

The protesters have vowed that they would continue to press for answers until the county government explained why force was used against what began as a peaceful protest.

Also Read: Sammy Kioko Hospitalized After Alleged Attack by Machakos County Askaris

 Governor Responds

In response, Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti released a statement on Wednesday, condemning the violence but asking for calm as investigations continue.

“First and foremost, I express concern over the unfortunate incident that occurred in Machakos Town on 31st March, 2026. As a County Government, we do not condone violence in any form and we urge all parties to exercise restraint and allow lawful and orderly processes to prevail,” she said.

Governor Ndeti also addressed the payment dispute directly, stating that the records indicate that Mr. Sammy Kioko is not a registered supplier of the County Government of Machakos.

The entity that supplied Inspectorate uniforms is Movata Designs… For any individual to lawfully act on behalf of the company, proper legal authorization must be presented.

Also Read: Machakos Governor Finally Breaks Silence on Sammy Kioko

Ongoing Dispute

The county’s clarification followed weeks of public pressure and online support for Kioko, whose supporters have questioned why the matter escalated to violence instead of being resolved through negotiation.

The comedian’s claims focus on an alleged KSh 19 million owed for services, and the protests reflect broader frustrations with delayed payments to small suppliers and creatives.

Despite the governor’s statement, Gen‑Zs have vowed to continue their demonstrations until authorities provide a clear resolution.

They have emphasized that peaceful protest remains a legitimate way to demand justice and transparency, especially amid allegations of mistreatment during Kioko’s arrest.

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Comedian Sammy Kioko and his associate Tom Daktari were reportedly arrested on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. PHOTO/ Courtesy.