Murkomen Orders Police to Protect Peaceful Protesters, Warns Against Violence Ahead of June 25 Demonstrations

Murkomen Orders Police to Protect Peaceful Protesters, Warns Against Violence Ahead of June 25 Demonstrations

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed police officers across the country to provide security and protection to peaceful protesters during the June 25 demonstrations, while issuing a stern warning against violence, vandalism, and attempts to disrupt public order.

The demonstrations, expected to take place in several towns and cities across Kenya, will mark one year since the historic Gen Z-led anti-government protests of June 2024, which culminated in the storming of Parliament and sparked nationwide debate on governance, taxation, and police conduct.

Speaking during a Peace and Security Meeting held in Angata Barikoi on June 24, Murkomen emphasized that the government recognizes and respects the constitutional right of citizens to assemble and express their views peacefully.

“For those who will engage in peaceful protests tomorrow, police are ready to give you security and protection so that you can have a peaceful march,” Murkomen stated.

The Cabinet Secretary urged security officers to exercise professionalism, restraint, and discipline while managing crowds, noting that the National Police Service has been instructed to facilitate lawful demonstrations while safeguarding lives and property.

Government Draws Line on Violence

Even as he affirmed support for peaceful assemblies, Murkomen warned that the government would take firm action against individuals or groups seeking to exploit the demonstrations to engage in criminal activities.

“Anyone who is going to disturb peace, I want to tell you that our National Police Service is well-equipped to ensure that our country is safe,” he warned.

The Interior CS noted that security agencies had gathered intelligence indicating possible attempts by criminal elements and organized groups to infiltrate the protests and cause chaos.

According to Murkomen, law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert and are prepared to respond swiftly to any incidents that threaten public safety or national security.

He further urged Kenyans to continue with their daily activities, assuring the public that adequate security measures had been put in place across the country.

Call for Normalcy Amid Demonstrations

Murkomen directed public servants, business operators, and learners to report to work and school as usual despite the planned demonstrations.

He stressed that the government remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted economic activity and service delivery throughout the protest period.

The June 25 anniversary has attracted significant public attention due to its symbolic importance. Last year’s demonstrations became one of the most defining political moments in Kenya’s recent history, drawing thousands of young people to the streets in opposition to the Finance Bill and broader governance concerns.

The protests resulted in dozens of deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction of property, prompting ongoing discussions about police accountability and citizens’ rights.

Arrests and Security Concerns

Ahead of the demonstrations, security agencies have intensified surveillance and enforcement operations.

Authorities recently arrested activist Bob Njagi in Kajiado County over allegations of incitement linked to the planned protests. The arrest has generated debate among activists and civil society groups, with some questioning the timing of the operation.

Meanwhile, counter-demonstrations have already been witnessed in parts of the country, including Kisumu, where groups of residents staged marches opposing the planned June 25 protests.

The developments highlight growing divisions over the demonstrations, with some Kenyans supporting the commemorative marches while others argue that the protests could disrupt business and public services.

Conflicting Signals Over Legality of Demonstrations

The planned protests have also sparked confusion regarding legal requirements for public gatherings.

Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud and other security officials have maintained that no formal notification regarding the demonstrations had been received at police stations as required by law.

As a result, authorities have declared planned gatherings within Nairobi’s Central Business District unlawful and warned that unauthorized assemblies may be dispersed.

Despite these concerns, President William Ruto has reiterated that Kenyans have a constitutional right to protest peacefully, while cautioning against violence and destruction of property.

“Every Kenyan has a right to express themselves within the law, but we will not tolerate lawlessness, violence, or destruction,” the President said in recent remarks.

As the country marks the anniversary of one of the most consequential protest movements in its history, attention now turns to how demonstrators, political leaders, and security agencies will navigate the delicate balance between constitutional freedoms and public order.

With heightened security across major urban centres, June 25 is expected to be a significant test of Kenya’s democratic space, policing reforms, and commitment to peaceful civic engagement.

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Murkomen Orders Police to Protect Peaceful Protesters, Warns Against Violence Ahead of June 25 Demonstrations