By Perez Karisa, June 24, 2026
The General Service Unit (GSU) Commandant Johana Tonui has issued strict operational directives to all deployed officers ahead of the June 25, 2026 protest commemoration, instructing them to maintain high vigilance, exercise maximum restraint, and uphold full professionalism during nationwide deployments.
In the directive, the elite paramilitary formation is required to prioritize the protection of human life, safeguard both public and private property, and ensure strict adherence to the rule of law while managing anticipated crowds across major urban centres.
Commandant Tonui further warned officers that any form of unauthorized aggression, excessive use of force, or disciplinary breaches would attract immediate consequences. He emphasized that officers must act within the law at all times, even under pressure in high-risk operational environments.
Security formations have been instructed to proactively secure key infrastructure, government installations, and central business districts without escalating tensions with peaceful demonstrators. The directive stresses the importance of balancing public order enforcement with respect for constitutional rights to assembly and expression.
At the same time, officers have been directed to remain alert to the presence of armed individuals or criminal groups that may attempt to infiltrate the demonstrations and incite chaos or violence. The GSU has been tasked with neutralizing such threats while ensuring peaceful protesters are not disrupted.
The security plan outlines the deployment of large GSU contingents in several designated high-risk zones, including Nairobi’s Central Business District, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret. Officers will also enforce strict security perimeters around sensitive government installations such as State House Road, Parliament Buildings, and major highways.
According to the directive, the GSU will operate in close coordination with the Kenya Police Service under the overall strategic command of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, ensuring unified command structures during the nationwide security operation.
The heightened security posture comes amid growing anticipation of the June 25 commemorations, which are expected to draw large gatherings in multiple counties, with authorities maintaining that all measures are aimed at preserving peace, order, and public safety.
