NAIROBI, Kenya- Organisers of the planned June 25 commemorations have outlined what they describe as a peaceful nationwide march to honour victims of last year’s anti-government protests, even as police warn against any attempts to disrupt public order during the demonstrations.
The commemorations are expected to mark the anniversary of the June 25, 2024 protests, which culminated in the storming of Parliament and left dozens dead, according to rights groups.
The events have since become a symbol of youth-led activism and demands for accountability.
Organisers say participants will carry flowers, white handkerchiefs, candles and Kenyan flags during the marches as a sign of peace and remembrance.
The processions are expected to take place in Nairobi and other major towns, with participants paying tribute to those who lost their lives during the 2024 demonstrations.
The organisers have maintained that the events are intended to be peaceful commemorations rather than confrontational protests, urging participants to avoid violence, vandalism and provocation.
However, security agencies have issued a stern warning against any acts of lawlessness during the demonstrations.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has assured Kenyans that adequate security measures have been put in place ahead of the June 25 events.
He said police would facilitate peaceful assembly while taking firm action against individuals involved in violence, destruction of property or disruption of public order.
“We will provide security to all Kenyans and those who will cause trouble will be dealt with according to the law,” Lagat said while addressing residents in Mombasa.
The police have also warned criminal gangs against infiltrating the commemorations, saying security agencies have intensified operations to prevent violence and protect businesses and members of the public.
Meanwhile, civil society organisations and human rights groups have called on law enforcement officers to exercise restraint and uphold constitutional freedoms during the commemorations.
Rights defenders have urged the National Police Service to facilitate peaceful demonstrations and avoid excessive use of force, noting that previous protests have resulted in deaths, injuries and allegations of police misconduct.
They have also called for close monitoring of the events by oversight institutions, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
President William Ruto has also weighed in on the planned demonstrations, saying Kenyans have a constitutional right to protest but warning that demonstrations should not descend into violence or destruction of property.
As the country prepares for the commemorations, the contrasting messages from organisers and security agencies underscore the delicate balance between the right to peaceful assembly and concerns over public safety.
Whether Thursday’s events remain entirely peaceful may depend on the conduct of both protesters and law enforcement officers as Kenyans gather to remember a defining moment in the country’s recent political history.
