Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has urged the government to crack down on Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) that are said to support activists and allegedly fund the protests witnessed in the country.
While speaking to members of the press on Friday, June 20, Cherargei claimed that the said NGOs were ‘unhappy with Kenya’s stability’ and called upon the government to use foreign intelligence networks to track alleged payments made.
He also called upon the body in charge of regulating NGOs in Kenya to take action and ensure that activists receiving backing from NGOs are registered.
“Most of our foreign friends are not happy that our country is stable. That is why they are pouring illicit money to fund some of these demonstrations,” the senator stated.
“I want to appeal to the government to use foreign intelligence networks to be on the lookout for the money that is being sent into the country to finance some of these illicit and illegal activists,” Cherargei stated.
His remarks come as the country gears up for major protests planned for Wednesday, June 25, in honour of Gen Zs who died in last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. The protests are being championed by the families of the victims of last year’s protests and a section of influential activists.
Last week, families of the fallen Gen Zs issued a formal notice to the Central Police Station seeking permission to hold a peaceful procession in their honour.
The planned peaceful marches were to the Office of the President and Parliament, in remembrance of the young people who died while protesting against the 2024 Finance Bill.
Nairobi Police Regional Commander George Sedah on Thursday, June 19, confirmed receipt of the notice, pledging to protect Kenyans who would seek to participate in the protests.
Aside from that assurance, Sedah added that police had put in place ‘enhanced plans’ ahead of protests, and warned against using violence or inciting police officers.
“We will provide enough and good security for all Kenyans to ensure that every person who is going to participate or be affected by the protests will be safe,” Sedah assured.
Cherargei’s sentiments on NGOs are not far-fetched, as American NGO Ford Foundation was accused by President William Ruto of financing last year’s protests.
The President accused the international firm of funnelling funds to unidentified groups in Kenya to stage protests and destabilise the country. He had further alleged that the organisation harboured ill motives and was operating against Kenya's best interests and democracy.
