Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has publicly blamed segments of the religious community and diplomatic corps for allegedly fueling the recent Gen Z-led protests across Kenya.

Speaking during a women’s empowerment event in Kambu, Makueni County, Kindiki claimed that statements from some church leaders and foreign envoys encouraged young people to take to the streets, which he described as incitement that led to violence and destruction.

“Today I want to ask those church and religious leaders, I want to ask those diplomats and political leaders whose statements incited our young people, what they saw yesterday – the destruction and looting, is that what they wanted? Is that what they were looking for,” he said.

He questioned whether those who urged youth to exercise their right to protest had anticipated the resulting chaos, including attacks on police stations and the theft of firearms.

Kindiki labeled the June 26 demonstrations as “the most violent and anarchist day in the history of the country,” and warned that the government would not allow such unrest to recur.

“I want to assure you that we will not allow, ever again what happened to be repeated. We cannot allow our country to slide into anarchy, lawlessness and chaos,” he said.

While reaffirming the government’s respect for freedom of expression and media, he drew a line between legitimate dissent and what he termed “deliberate attempts to destabilize the country.” His remarks come amid growing scrutiny over the state’s response to the protests, which reportedly left over 15 people dead.