No Protests on June 25, Government Declares
The Government of Kenya has announced a total ban on street protests scheduled for June 25, despite growing social media campaigns calling for peaceful demonstrations in memory of Gen Z protesters who died during last year’s anti-government rallies.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, in a Monday radio interview, emphasized that the day will remain a normal working day and discouraged any public gatherings.
“There will be no demonstrations on June 25. It’s a regular day. If you want to mark it, do so at home,” he said.
Government Cites Security, Public Order Concerns
Mwaura cited security threats and the risk of economic disruption as the primary reasons for prohibiting the planned protests on June 25 in Nairobi and other cities. He condemned what he called “a pattern of criminal elements” hijacking peaceful assemblies to cause chaos and destruction.
He further warned the public against provoking the Kenya Police Service, insisting that officers must be allowed to uphold law and order without intimidation or political pressure.
Youth Mobilization Online: #GenZMemorial Trends
Despite the government’s position, online activism in Kenya remains a growing trend. Hashtags such as #GenZMemorial, #OccupyStateHouse, and #JusticeForGenZ have trended on Twitter and TikTok, with calls for peaceful protests in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and beyond.
Some online posts have proposed radical action, including mass marches toward Parliament and the State House, raising security red flags for authorities.
Police Promise Restraint Ahead of Potential Protests
In a separate statement, Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda reassured the public that officers would offer protection to peaceful demonstrators and prevent interference by criminal groups.
Similarly, NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, appearing on Radio Citizen, warned officers against using excessive force. He referenced the controversial police shooting of hawker Boniface Kariuki during recent protests, promising legal consequences for misconduct.
“Officers found misusing firearms will be dealt with according to the law,” said Nyaga.
What the Law Says: Peaceful Protests Are Legal in Kenya
Under Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, all citizens have the right to assemble and demonstrate peacefully, as long as they are unarmed. However, the Public Order Act mandates that protest organizers notify police at least three days before an event and no more than 14 days in advance.
Legal analysts argue that the government’s blanket ban contradicts constitutional rights unless backed by clear threats to public safety or national security
