As Kenya prepares for a major protest in Nairobi to mark the first anniversary of a deadly demonstration, a group of club-wielding men is pledging to “protect” the city’s streets.
Among them is 34-year-old Swaleh Aroko from the Korogocho slum, who, like dozens of others, takes to the streets armed with wooden clubs. Their aim, they claim, is to safeguard businesses in the Central Business District from violent protesters, especially following recent demonstrations sparked by the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Over the past two weeks, journalists have observed these men branded as “goons” by some demonstrators moving in tandem with police, confronting protest crowds with sticks and rubber whips. Their involvement has raised serious concerns over potential violence during the upcoming protests scheduled for Wednesday.
Speaking to reporters, Aroko described himself as a former criminal turned protector of public order. He denied being a thug, insisting that he and others were patriots preserving the peace and protecting businesses from looters. “If you throw stones, we’ll step in to disperse you,” he said. “We’re not here to destroy our country.”
While Aroko admitted the clashes were chaotic, he placed the blame on protesters, saying their actions provoked the violence. When questioned about his specific role in the confrontations, he declined to go into detail.
The Kenyan police have denied working with these counter-protesters. Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga stated via text that the National Police Service “does NOT work with ‘goons'” and is currently reviewing videos of various incidents to determine any necessary action.
Despite some isolated incidents—such as the burning of two vehicles on June 12—Reuters reports that most demonstrations have remained peaceful. However, protesters have also retaliated at times, targeting some of the self-proclaimed defenders.
Team Sakaja” and Alleged Political Links
Aroko and fellow counter-protester Ronald Otieno identified themselves as part of “Team Sakaja,” aligning with Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, a close ally of President William Ruto. Otieno described their actions as a right and duty, referring to themselves as the “governor’s boys.” However, they stopped short of confirming direct funding or instructions from Sakaja himself.
While Aroko claimed they were funded by local businesspeople coordinating with police to protect private property, Otieno hinted at support from county assembly members, though he declined to name any specific officials.
Governor Sakaja, in a separate statement to local media, denied having any connection to the counter-protest groups, asserting he does not support individuals who “exploit demonstrations for criminal gain.” The president’s office and the Nairobi Chamber of Commerce did not respond to Reuters’ inquiries regarding possible ties to the group.
As Wednesday’s protest approaches, Aroko and Otieno vow to return to the streets once more ready to confront any threats they believe may emerge from the demonstrations.
“Come peacefully,” Aroko warned demonstrators. “The business community is prepared. The government is prepared. You can’t burn Nairobi over one person.”
