Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo has urged Kenyans planning to participate in the June 25 anniversary protests to exercise their constitutional rights peacefully and within the law.
Speaking during a Prize Giving Day ceremony at Chinga Boys Senior School in Nyeri on Friday, Dr Omollo acknowledged that the Constitution guarantees the right to demonstrate, picket and petition authorities, but stressed that such freedoms must be exercised responsibly.
He warned that the government would not tolerate violence, destruction of property, looting or any other criminal activities during the planned nationwide demonstrations.
“The Constitution allows us to demonstrate and to picket. It is within our rights to even petition authorities,” said Dr Omollo.
However, he emphasized that carrying weapons and engaging in acts of violence cannot be justified as part of peaceful demonstrations.
“There is no way you are going to a demonstration carrying machetes, pangas or stones. That is not a demonstration; that is a criminal act. There is no way you are demonstrating and burning or looting businesses or killing fellow citizens. It is not acceptable,” he said.
The Principal Secretary condemned incidents witnessed during previous protests, which were characterized by violence, arson, looting and attacks on innocent citizens. He noted that such actions undermine the rule of law and violate the rights of other Kenyans.
Dr Omollo assured citizens that the government remains committed to safeguarding constitutional freedoms while taking firm action against individuals who engage in criminal conduct.
“Because we have a responsibility as a government and as citizens of this country, we will respect the Constitution and follow the law. Where there are criminal acts, we will firmly deal with those acts,” he said.
The June 25 demonstrations have been organized by families of more than 60 young people who lost their lives during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests. The anniversary events are intended to commemorate the victims while also providing a platform for families to demand justice, accountability and answers regarding the deaths.
Dr Omollo appealed to Kenyans to preserve the country’s peace, stability and economic progress by embracing patriotism, tolerance and mutual respect.
He said democracy provides citizens with lawful avenues for holding leaders accountable and urged Kenyans to allow elected leaders an opportunity to deliver on their promises before passing judgment.
“We must respect our leaders by giving them an opportunity to deliver on their promises. When they fail to do so, we also have an opportunity to change them. Those who do not deliver can be changed through democratic means,” he said.
The PS added that national development depends on citizens respecting one another, respecting the law and maintaining peaceful coexistence.
His remarks were echoed by Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira and Central Regional Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha, who also attended the event.
Wachira called on Kenyans to commemorate those who lost their lives during the 2024 protests in a dignified and peaceful manner, without engaging in violence or destruction of property.
He expressed concern over increasing cases of violent protests in the Central region, noting that such incidents have negatively affected businesses and economic activities.
“Three or four years ago, the Central Region was not known for demonstrations. We are now making headlines because of violent protests and the destruction of businesses. These actions hurt livelihoods and undermine the region’s economic growth,” said Wachira.
The Energy PS urged residents to protect investments and support initiatives that promote economic development rather than activities that lead to losses and instability.
On his part, Central Regional Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha cautioned that authorities would take legal action against anyone found violating the law during the planned demonstrations.
He urged protesters to use lawful channels to express their views and grievances while maintaining peace and order.
“We have heard there are planned June 25 anniversary protests. Please follow the law and use the correct channels to express yourselves. Should you break the law, we shall have no choice but to take legal action against you,” he warned.
By Wangari Mwangi
