The government has assured Kenyans of adequate security measures in place ahead of the planned June 25 demonstrations while urging citizens to uphold peace and avoid actions that could lead to violence and destruction of property.
Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said that the State fully recognizes and respects the constitutional right of citizens to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions as guaranteed under Article 37 of the Constitution.
Dr. Mwaura, however, emphasized that while peaceful protests are protected by law, violence, destruction of property, and attacks on law enforcement officers remain criminal acts that undermine democracy and national stability.
“The government reaffirms that the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions is a constitutional freedom. However, recent demonstrations have been marred by violence, loss of life and destruction of property. Such acts are criminal and often result from the infiltration of peaceful gatherings by criminal elements,” he reiterated.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, the Government Spokesperson noted that police brutality remains unacceptable, but cautioned that attacks against police officers are equally intolerable.
He explained that once an assembly turns violent, security agencies are legally empowered to restore order in accordance with the Constitution and the Penal Code.
Further, Dr. Mwaura urged Kenyans to distinguish between peaceful demonstrations and violent acts, warning against the exploitation of constitutional freedoms for political purposes.
“Why commemorate lives lost by endangering others, destroying property, and seeking political gain? We must uphold constitutional rights without allowing them to be exploited for unrest and division,” he implored.
Additionally, the spokesperson clarified that June 25 is not a public holiday and will remain a normal working day calling on citizens, including public servants to continue with their daily activities and contribute positively to the country’s economic development.
“We want to assure Kenyans that adequate security measures have been put in place. Citizens should not fear going to work or carrying on with their normal activities,” he declared.
Commenting on fire at Gikomba Market, Dr. Mwaura conveyed the government’s condolences to traders who lost property and livelihoods.
He said the National Disaster Operations Centre and other government agencies were working closely with Nairobi County authorities to establish the cause of the fire and provide support for affected traders.
“The government wishes to convey its sincere condolences and sympathies to the traders affected by the tragic Gikomba fire. We stand with them in solidarity and urge the public to avoid speculation until investigations are completed,” he stated.
The Spokesperson further announced the government’s commitment to compensating victims of human rights violations and protest-related incidents dating from 2017 to 2026 through a restorative justice programme dubbed Uweano.
According to Dr. Mwaura, the programme is guided by Presidential Proclamation No. 1 of 2026, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reparation guidelines and a Sh2 billion allocation approved by Parliament.
“So far, more than 1,500 victims have been verified for compensation, and the numbers continue to rise as claims are processed. This initiative is about restoration and reconciliation, not retribution,” he elaborated.
He further added that compensation would cover various categories of violations, including loss of life, serious injuries and other documented abuses. Victims can submit claims orally or in writing through KNCHR, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) or the Ministry of Interior.
Likewise, Dr. Mwaura stressed that all personal information submitted by claimants would be handled confidentially in accordance with the Data Protection Act, 2019.
The government also condemned increasing cases of political violence and hooliganism witnessed in different parts of the country, warning that perpetrators, sponsors and those inciting violence would face the full force of the law.
“No individual, regardless of social status, political affiliation or public office, is above the law. Political competition must be conducted within the bounds of the law and with respect for differing opinions,” he asserted.
Addressing concerns over the Affordable Housing Programme, Dr. Mwaura dismissed claims that homeowners could lose their houses following a change in government.
He pointed out ownership of houses acquired under the programme is protected under Article 40 of the Constitution and the Affordable Housing Act, 2024.
“Homes lawfully purchased through the Affordable Housing Programme remain the permanent property of the owners regardless of any future change in government. Such claims are misleading and intended to create unnecessary fear among homeowners,” he cautioned.
The Spokesperson disclosed that beneficiaries receive legally recognized sectional titles under the Sectional Properties Act, 2020, guaranteeing secure ownership, transferability and inheritance rights.
On the proposed developments within Nairobi National Park, Dr. Mwaura insisted that the government would strictly adhere to all legal and environmental requirements.
He elaborated that the approved project involves relocating the Nairobi Animal Orphanage to a modern facility within the broader park ecosystem without reducing the park’s overall acreage.
The Spokesperson also defended ongoing plans to modernize Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), saying the project is being implemented through a transparent international procurement process and is necessary to address aging infrastructure and increasing passenger demand.
“Kenya must continue investing in modern infrastructure if it is to maintain its position as a regional transport hub. The current procurement process has followed all legal requirements and international standards,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mwaura announced the establishment of the Africa Anti-Corruption Studies and Research Centre in Nairobi under the Association of African Anti-Corruption Authorities (AACA).
He outlined that the centre would strengthen research, policy development, capacity building and regional cooperation in combating corruption, money laundering, cybercrime and illicit financial flows across the continent.
“The centre positions Kenya as a continental leader in anti-corruption efforts and demonstrates our continued commitment to transparency, accountability and good governance,” he reaffirmed.
In the meantime, Dr. Mwaura reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining peace, safeguarding constitutional rights and promoting national cohesion while ensuring that all citizens exercise their freedoms responsibly.
