The government has ruled out any form of street protests despite a wave of online mobilisation by youth planning peaceful marches in memory of Gen Z protesters who lost their lives during last year’s anti-government demonstrations.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, speaking during a morning radio show on Monday, maintained that no protests would be permitted on June 25, citing the need to ensure normal functioning of the economy and public order. He stressed that those wishing to commemorate the day were free to do so from their homes.
“There will be no demonstrations on June 25, and that day will be a normal day. Anyone who wishes to commemorate it is free to do so from their home,” Mwaura stated.
At the same time, he strongly condemned what he termed as a trend where criminals hijack peaceful protests to engage in acts of lawlessness.
He reiterated that the core duty of the police is to protect all citizens impartially, without political bias, and cautioned the public against mocking or provoking officers tasked with maintaining law and order.
On social media, several trending hashtags have emerged, mobilising thousands of youth to turn out in large numbers on June 25 to commemorate the Gen Z protesters who lost their lives. Notably, some users have floated the idea of marching toward and storming critical security installations, including Parliament and the State House—a development that has raised concern among security agencies monitoring the situation.
Meanwhile, the National Police Service (NPS), which has previously faced criticism for using excessive force on peaceful demonstrators, has signalled a more measured approach ahead of the planned June 25 commemorations. In separate statements, police officials indicated that the protests would be allowed to proceed, provided they remain lawful and peaceful.
Last week, Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda assured the public that officers would protect demonstrators from criminal elements who may attempt to hijack the events, referencing last week's protests where violence and vandalism erupted due to infiltration by unruly groups.
At the same time, NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga on Monday issued a stern warning to police officers across the country against the reckless use of firearms during protests. Speaking during a morning show on Radio Citizen, Muchiri emphasised that officers found misusing their weapons would face severe legal consequences.
He acknowledged the recent controversial shooting of hawker Boniface Kariuki during last week’s protests, calling it unjustified. “The two officers involved will face the full force of the law, and this should serve as a warning to others,” he stated.
“The police have been trained on how to use firearms and the legal framework that guides their use. What we’ve seen in some cases does not reflect what is required under the law,” Muchiri added.
Kenya’s Constitution under Article 37 guarantees every citizen the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities—provided such actions are conducted peacefully and without arms.
However, the Public Order Act requires protest organisers to notify the police at least three days in advance, but not more than 14 days prior to the event. While authorities may guide or impose conditions on the protest route or timing to maintain public order, they cannot arbitrarily ban peaceful demonstrations unless there’s a clear and proven threat to safety or national security, despite Mwaura's directives.
