Archbishop van Megen defends peaceful protests but condemns violence and destruction.
Catholic Archbishop van Megen has urged both the government and young protesters to exercise restraint and dialogue, as the country continues to witness waves of anti-government demonstrations
Speaking during Education Day celebrations at the Catholic Diocese of Murang’a, the Archbishop said that while peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, it should not be used to justify violence or destruction.
“Peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right. But there is no moral or legal justification for the destruction of property, loss of lives, or the disruption of peace,” he said.
The protests, led mostly by young Kenyans, began as a rejection of the controversial Finance Bill but have since grown into a wider movement expressing anger over governance, unemployment, and public accountability.
Some demonstrations have turned violent, leading to multiple deaths, injuries, and damage to public and private property across the country.
Archbishop van Megen expressed deep sorrow over the lives lost and called for a return to constructive engagement.
He urged the government to listen to the youth and provide platforms for meaningful conversations, rather than confrontation.
“The government must listen to its young people, and at the same time, the youth must be willing to engage in respectful conversations that can bring about lasting solutions,” he added.
His remarks come amid mounting pressure from civil society and religious leaders for national unity, justice, and political accountability following weeks of unrest.
