Former Chief Justice David Maraga has condemned the violent disruption of a press conference by mothers and human rights defenders at the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) offices, calling it a dangerous affront to constitutional freedoms.
The attack took place on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at the KHRC offices along Gitanga Road in Nairobi. A group of armed men stormed the venue, disrupting the gathering, which had been organised by Women’s Collective Kenya ahead of today’s Saba Saba commemorations.
“I vehemently condemn the violence against mothers gathered at KHRC to speak up against the use of violence at tomorrow’s Saba Saba commemoration,” Maraga said in a statement released Sunday evening through his X account.
The group of mothers had convened to express concern over the rising trend of state-linked violence during protests. However, chaos erupted when the goons invaded the premises, scattered attendees, and looted electronics. Some journalists covering the event also lost equipment.
Warns of instability
“This is not only a violation of our Constitution, but it will also lead the country into instability and anarchy,” Maraga added, warning of the broader implications if such attacks go unchecked.
The disruption drew sharp criticism from civil society, with organisations terming it part of a larger trend of shrinking civic space in Kenya. The timing, on the eve of Saba Saba Day, which historically commemorates Kenya’s push for multi-party democracy, has intensified concerns.
Maraga further urged the state to uphold democratic rights and stop “using fear as a tool to silence dissent.”
As Kenyans mark Saba Saba Day, the attack on the mothers’ forum underscores the tension between state authority and citizen activism—and the urgent need for accountability.
Several players have called on the security agencies to clamp down on goons who in recent times have unleashed terror on peaceful protesters.
