A public participation forum convened by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and other civil society organisations to scrutinise the 2026/2027 national budget was thrown into disarray on Friday, June 12, after a group of suspected goons stormed the meeting at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi.
The forum had brought together members of the public, civil society representatives, and stakeholders to discuss whether the recently presented national budget adequately addressed the needs and priorities of ordinary Kenyans.
However, proceedings were abruptly interrupted when a group of young men reportedly forced their way into the venue, triggering panic among participants.
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Witnesses at the scene claimed the intruders attempted to steal mobile phones and other valuables from attendees as confusion spread throughout the hall. The disruption forced some participants to flee for safety while others struggled to understand the motive behind the incident.
Police officers responded swiftly to the disturbance, firing warning shots into the air to disperse the group and restore order at the cathedral grounds. Although calm was eventually restored, the incident left many attendees shaken.
According to KHRC, at least one suspect was arrested in connection with the disruption. The arrest has since sparked controversy after the suspect allegedly made claims linking the incident to senior government officials.
In footage and statements released by the commission, the detained individual reportedly alleged that the group had been sent by the government official who presented the national budget in Parliament.
“Nakuambia hao walikuwa wametumwa na mwenye alisoma budget jana,” the suspect was heard saying in a recorded exchange.
When asked whether he was referring to the person who had read the budget, the suspect reportedly responded in the affirmative.
The individual further stated that he could not prevent people from attending the meeting, suggesting that discussions surrounding the budget had attracted public interest.
The allegations have generated significant public debate, particularly because the budget was presented by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi.
In a strongly worded statement following the incident, KHRC described the disruption as a deliberate attempt to intimidate citizens and suppress civic engagement.
The commission also reported that valuables, including at least one mobile phone, were stolen during the melee.
KHRC went further to directly challenge Mbadi over the allegations made by the arrested suspect.
“State-hired goons have stormed a meeting where the KHRC and other CSOs were discussing the 2026/2027 budget that was presented yesterday. One of the assailants was arrested and said he was sent by a government official,” the commission stated.
The rights body further asserted that Mbadi should take responsibility if the allegations were proven true, arguing that acts of intimidation undermine democratic participation and public accountability.
As of the time of publication, the National Treasury and CS John Mbadi had not publicly responded to the allegations made by the suspect or the statements issued by KHRC.
The incident has reignited concerns over the safety of public participation forums and the protection of civic spaces in Kenya, particularly during discussions on matters of national importance such as the country’s budget and public spending priorities.