University Student Leaders Reject Calls to Join Planned Protests Hours After Gachagua Remarks

University Student Leaders Reject Attempts to Mobilize Them, Dismiss Gachagua’s Statements

University student leaders from across the country have distanced themselves from calls to join planned protests this week, warning fellow students against being used by politicians and other groups with hidden interests.

Speaking during a joint press briefing on June 23, the student leaders said they support the constitutional right of every Kenyan to assemble, demonstrate, and picket peacefully.

However, they cautioned that the planned commemoration could be infiltrated by individuals seeking to cause chaos and confrontation.

The leaders said they were concerned that some political actors were attempting to mobilize young people for their own agendas.

“We must not allow ourselves to be used by political opportunists. We must not allow our pain, energy and voices to be turned into violence, destruction, or lawlessness,” the student leaders said.

Their remarks come amid recent statements by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua regarding the planned demonstrations.

The student leaders emphasized that students should not become tools for political battles and urged young people to make independent decisions.

Call for Peaceful Participation

The leaders acknowledged the frustrations and concerns expressed by many young Kenyans but urged those planning to participate in the commemoration to do so peacefully and responsibly.

“To our fellow students and young people: if you choose to attend the commemoration, do so peacefully, responsibly and within the law. Protect your life. Protect your neighbour. Protect public and private property,” they said.

They stressed that violence, destruction of property, and clashes with police would only undermine the cause that many young people seek to advance.

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Student Leaders Welcome Compensation for Protest Victims

The student leaders also welcomed the government’s compensation process for verified victims of human rights violations linked to demonstrations and public protests between 2013 and 2025.

They described the initiative as an important step toward justice and healing for victims and their families.

“While compensation cannot bring back lost lives or fully erase the suffering endured, it is a necessary step towards justice, accountability and healing,” the statement read.

They encouraged eligible victims who have not completed the process to submit the required consent and payment details.

Also Read: Gachagua Warns Kenyans to Stay Away From June 25 Gen Z Protests

Young People Urged to Use Democratic Channels

The student leaders encouraged young people to pursue change through legal and democratic means, including voter registration, participation in public consultations, and engagement with elected leaders.

They noted that public facilities, businesses, and institutions belong to Kenyans and should not be destroyed during demonstrations.

“Many are owned by ordinary citizens, and many may be our employers, partners or sources of livelihood in the future. Destroying them only hurts fellow citizens and weakens our own future,” they said.

The leaders concluded by urging students to reject any attempts to recruit them as agents of violence.

“We therefore call on all students to reject any attempt to mobilise them as goons or agents of chaos. Let us stand for peace, discipline and responsible civic engagement.”

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