By Joshua Otieno | June 22, 2026
NAIROBI, KENYA — The Government has called on Kenyans to maintain peace and exercise restraint as the country prepares to mark the first anniversary of the Gen Z protests scheduled for June 25.
Addressing journalists at Harambee Annex in Nairobi, Government Spokesman Dr. Isaac Mwaura reaffirmed that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions, describing peaceful protest as an important pillar of democratic governance.
However, the Government expressed concern over recent demonstrations that have degenerated into violence, leading to deaths, injuries and destruction of property in several parts of the country.
According to Mwaura, while peaceful demonstrations remain protected under Article 37 of the Constitution, criminal elements have increasingly taken advantage of public gatherings to engage in acts of lawlessness that undermine legitimate constitutional freedoms.
“The right to protest is protected by our Constitution, but that right must be exercised peacefully and responsibly. Violence, destruction of property and attacks on fellow citizens have no place in a democratic society,” said Mwaura.
The Government also maintained that incidents of police brutality remain unacceptable and should be investigated whenever they occur. At the same time, Mwaura emphasized that attacks targeting police officers are equally unlawful and should be condemned.
“The Constitution protects all Kenyans, including law enforcement officers. Violence against any citizen is unacceptable regardless of their position or profession,” he added.
Authorities say security agencies are obligated to intervene whenever peaceful demonstrations turn violent in order to restore public order and protect lives and property.
The Government noted that one of the key challenges facing law enforcement is balancing the constitutional right to protest with the rights of other citizens to conduct business, travel freely and pursue their daily activities without disruption.
As debate continues over the planned June 25 demonstrations, Mwaura clarified that the day will not be observed as a public holiday and urged Kenyans to continue with their normal activities.
“We encourage citizens to go about their daily duties and continue contributing to national development. Our economy cannot afford further disruptions when many businesses are still recovering from previous incidents,” he said.
According to Government estimates, recent protests resulted in losses exceeding KSh6 billion, affecting traders, transport operators and investors across various sectors of the economy.
The Government further appealed to Kenyans wishing to commemorate lives lost during previous demonstrations to do so peacefully and responsibly without engaging in actions that could trigger instability or destruction.
Mwaura also cautioned political leaders against exploiting public demonstrations for political gain, warning that inflammatory statements risk heightening tensions and undermining national cohesion.
“Political competition must be conducted within the law and with respect for our constitutional institutions. Leaders should not incite citizens or exploit public emotions for political purposes,” he stated.
Security agencies have been directed to remain vigilant against any attempts to incite violence, destroy property or disrupt public order. The Government warned that individuals found responsible for organizing, financing or participating in unlawful activities will face legal consequences regardless of their political affiliations.
Meanwhile, the Government announced progress on a compensation programme targeting victims of past human rights violations under the Uwiano Programme.
Mwaura revealed that compensation payments will commence soon following the allocation of KSh2 billion by Parliament to support victims affected by human rights violations dating back to 2017.
Government records indicate that more than 1,500 claims have already been verified and approved for compensation, including cases involving loss of life, serious injuries and sexual violence experienced during periods of unrest.
“The compensation programme is intended to promote healing, reconciliation and restorative justice while allowing independent investigations and prosecutions to continue,” Mwaura explained.
The Government also raised concern over increasing cases of political intolerance and violence reported in different parts of the country.
Mwaura condemned politically motivated attacks and acts of hooliganism, warning that such incidents threaten democratic freedoms and national unity.
Authorities have directed security agencies to intensify surveillance and enforcement operations in identified hotspots, with the Government insisting that nobody will be spared from prosecution if found responsible for political violence.
As the country moves closer to the 2027 General Election, the Government has called on political leaders and citizens alike to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and respect for the rule of law.
“Kenya’s democracy is strongest when citizens engage peacefully, respect differing opinions and reject violence in all its forms,” said Mwaura.
