What started as an ordinary Monday morning drive turned into a devastating ordeal for Reverend Henry Larwey after his vehicle was attacked and torched during anti-fuel price protests in Nairobi’s Githurai area.
The demonstrations, organised by sections of the transport sector over rising fuel costs, escalated into chaos in parts of the city, leaving several motorists stranded and caught in confrontations with protesters.
Journey Turns Chaotic
Pastor Larwey was reportedly heading towards Kamakis for his daily activities when he encountered a group of demonstrators blocking the road in Githurai.
According to the clergyman, the situation initially appeared manageable as he attempted to speak calmly with the protesters after they forced him to slow down.
However, events quickly took a dangerous turn after his mobile phone was allegedly snatched from him, leaving him unable to negotiate further with the crowd.
“I realised my phone was taken… I could not negotiate with them by giving them anything,” the pastor recalled.
Moments later, the group reportedly descended on the vehicle, pelting it with stones before forcefully opening the doors and boot to loot personal belongings inside.
UDA Sash Allegedly Triggered Crowd
The confrontation reportedly intensified after demonstrators noticed a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) sash hanging on the driver’s seat.
According to Pastor Larwey, the sight of the political item immediately changed the mood of the crowd, with some protesters allegedly shouting and identifying him as a UDA supporter.
“When I got out of the seat, they saw a UDA sash… then they started shouting. It provoked them and they came to the car and started smashing it,” he explained.
The mob allegedly vandalised the vehicle before eventually setting it on fire.
Millions Lost in Minutes
The pastor said the destroyed car was worth approximately KSh 3 million, describing the incident as a major financial setback.
Ironically, Larwey noted that part of his work involves programmes aimed at empowering and connecting young people to employment opportunities — the same demographic heavily represented during the protests.
Calls for Peaceful Demonstrations
Following the incident, the pastor reported the matter at Kasarani Police Station and was advised to return later to record a detailed statement as investigations continue.
Despite losing his vehicle, Pastor Larwey urged Kenyans to maintain peace during demonstrations and avoid destructive actions.
“People have a right to do what they want… but God is still on the throne,” he said while reflecting on the incident.