Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured Kenyans that the government will respect the constitutional right to peaceful protest, even as authorities prepare for nationwide Gen Z-led demonstrations scheduled for June 25, 2026.
In a detailed statement released on June 24, Murkomen confirmed that police had received formal notification from citizens intending to hold public demonstrations.
He emphasized that the protests would proceed within the framework of the law, noting that security agencies are ready to provide protection and guidance to participants.
“Tomorrow is a normal working and school day,” Murkomen stated, while reiterating that the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble, picket, and present petitions peacefully.
The planned protests are expected to draw significant participation, particularly from young Kenyans marking the anniversary of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations that left dozens dead and hundreds injured, according to rights groups.
However, the Interior CS raised concerns over intelligence reports indicating that some political actors may attempt to exploit the protests.
He warned that criminal elements, including organized gangs, could infiltrate the demonstrations to incite violence, loot businesses, and disrupt public order.
Murkomen said the government would take firm and decisive action against anyone found engaging in criminal activities.
He revealed that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is already probing individuals suspected of mobilizing and financing violent groups ahead of the protests.
“The government will deal decisively, and in accordance with the law, with any individuals or groups seeking to exploit legitimate protests to cause chaos,” he said.
At the same time, Murkomen sought to reassure the public that police will act within legal limits to protect both protesters and non-participants.
He urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and unarmed, and advised them to distance themselves from any individuals engaging in unlawful conduct.
The CS also maintained that June 25 will remain a normal working and school day, urging Kenyans to continue with their daily activities without disruption.
In a pointed response to critics, Murkomen dismissed claims that the state supports violent groups, insisting that security agencies have been instructed to act against all criminals “without fear or favour.”
The statement comes amid heightened political tension, with opposition figures and activists raising concerns over potential state response and safety during the protests.