Just hours after meeting top security bosses and taking a pre-dawn stroll through the city, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured Kenyans of their safety.
After weeks of denying that the protests would take place, the CS has now assured the public that their livelihoods will be protected as they go about their daily activities.
He further urged those planning to participate in the June 25 protests to prioritise peace and adhere to the guidelines set out in law.
“As you go about your daily activities, be assured that your safety and the protection of your livelihoods are our top priority,” read part of the statement.
"For those who will turn up to exercise their constitutional right to demonstrate, we urge them to do so peacefully and unarmed as provided for in our laws. Peace is the foundation for a strong and prosperous Nation; let us all join hands to uphold it."
At around 5am, Murkomen claimed that he met several Kenyans who were already up and engaging in their daily hustles, praising them for their continued efforts in building the nation.
"We have a Nation to keep and build. On my way to work this morning, I met so many Kenyans who were up early and making their way to their daily hustles. We shall do everything to protect everyone and their livelihoods. I appreciate all our men and women in uniform who keep us all safe and secure," he stated.
Murkomen's remarks come just hours after the National Police Service (NPS) cautioned protestors against breaching any protected areas during the anticipated protests, warning that they would face the relevant consequences.
In a statement dated June 24, the NPS also warned Kenyans exercising their right to picket not to provoke security officers deployed to maintain calm during the peaceful protests.
The National Police Service shall at all times lawfully and firmly prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups of persons acting contrary to the provisions of the law.
"Additionally, it is important to note that unauthorised persons must refrain from accessing protected areas under the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204, Laws of Kenya)."
Kenyans are currently holding protests across the country in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisii, and Kitengela to commemorate the 60 lives lost during the June 25, 2024, anti-finance bill protests.
Barricades have since been erected outside the Parliament buildings to deter protesters from breaching them, and police officers have already started lobbing teargas at demonstrators in Nairobi CBD.
