Moses Kuria Applauds Githurai and Thika for Self-Organized Security Ahead of Saba Saba Protests

Moses Kuria, Senior Advisor to President William Ruto on the Council of Economic Advisors, has publicly commended the residents and business communities of Githurai and Thika towns in Kiambu County for what he described as their proactive efforts to safeguard lives and property.

Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Kuria praised the two towns for taking initiative amid heightened national tension ahead of the Saba Saba commemorations.

“Big up Githurai Business Community. I am satisfied with the Presidential Level Security you have put in place to protect your families and businesses. Stand Your Ground. You are on your own,” Kuria wrote.

He echoed a similar message for Thika, tweeting:

“Well done Thika Town. Good organization to protect your businesses. Stand Your Guard. This is civil war.”

Kuria’s remarks come on the eve of Saba Saba (July 7), a historically significant day in Kenya that commemorates the pro-democracy protests of 1990. On that day, citizens took to the streets to demand an end to the one-party regime, a struggle that eventually led to Kenya’s embrace of multi-party democracy and major constitutional reforms.

This year’s anniversary unfolds amid rising public frustration over economic difficulties, including the high cost of living and controversial taxation policies. Youth-led protests—especially those sparked by the Finance Bill—have recently drawn large crowds across the country and resulted in frequent clashes with security forces.

In anticipation of fresh demonstrations, the government significantly ramped up security across major towns. In Nairobi, routes such as Waiyaki Way, Thika Road, and Mombasa Road were heavily policed, with roadblocks set up and access limited mostly to emergency and government vehicles. Many commuters were forced to walk into the city due to the closures.

Other cities, including Mombasa and Kisumu, also saw increased police deployment, although the scale was more subdued.

The National Police Service had earlier issued a warning against violence and damage to property, urging demonstrators to exercise their rights within the bounds of the law.

As a precaution, several schools advised students to stay home, and many businesses shut their doors or reinforced their premises with metal grills to prevent potential looting.

Kuria’s choice of words—particularly his reference to a “civil war”—has stirred debate online, with critics questioning whether such rhetoric from a senior presidential advisor might further inflame tensions.

Still, his comments reflect growing concern from both the government and private sector as the country navigates this tense political moment.