Interior CS Murkomen praises citizens for maintaining order as security agencies prevent widespread violence during June 25 memorial demonstrations.
Kenya experienced a largely peaceful day on Thursday as citizens marked the second anniversary of the 2024 anti-tax protests.
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen commended Kenyans for heeding the government’s call to maintain peace and continue with their daily activities.
The demonstrations, which commemorated the events of June 25, 2024, when protesters breached Parliament grounds, did not result in widespread cases of looting, vandalism, skirmishes, or injuries. This outcome, according to Murkomen, demonstrates the maturity of Kenya’s politics and governance.
“Today is proof that when demonstrations are conducted in accordance with the provisions of our Constitution, peace and security are guaranteed,” Murkomen stated. He emphasized that this should become the political culture the country encourages and promotes.
Security Measures and Arrests
Despite the relative calm, authorities reported that 355 individuals were arrested across various parts of the country in connection with the demonstrations. Nairobi recorded the highest number with 161 arrests, followed by Kajiado with 123 and Kiambu with 36.
The Cabinet Secretary explained that criminal elements attempted to commit various offenses under the guise of peaceful protests. The suspects face charges including robbery, vandalism, obstruction of roads, and attempted theft .
Security agencies implemented extensive measures to prevent a repeat of the 2024 violence.
Major roads leading to Nairobi’s Central Business District were blocked, and a heavy police presence was visible throughout the city. Parliament Buildings were ringed with barbed wire, and access was significantly restricted.
“We regret the inconveniences occasioned by these measures,” Murkomen told reporters, “and at the same time appreciate their effectiveness in securing the city and other parts of the country”.
Intelligence-Led Operations
The government credited intelligence-led operations for successfully preventing criminal elements from infiltrating the demonstrations.
Acting on credible intelligence indicating that goons were being transported from other regions to cause chaos in Nairobi, security agencies established checks along major highways.
“Security screening was mounted on major highways into the city this morning to keep would-be troublemakers at bay,” Murkomen explained . These measures resulted in relative calm prevailing throughout the city and surrounding areas.
The Interior CS also acknowledged that these security checks inconvenienced some motorists and travelers, but maintained that they were necessary and effective in protecting lives, property, and businesses.
Families and Activists Remember Victims
While most areas experienced normal business activity, families of those killed during the 2024 protests gathered to remember their loved ones.
Opposition leaders and activists marched to parliamentary precincts to lay flowers in memory of demonstrators who died two years ago.
Edith Wanjiku, whose 19-year-old son Ibrahim Kamau was killed in 2024, expressed frustration at being blocked by police when attempting to mourn at Parliament. “As parents, we sought permission just to come here to mourn and lay flowers for our children. But when we arrived, we were shocked because the police blocked us,” she said.
Professional Police Conduct
Murkomen praised security officers deployed across the country for their professionalism and dedication . He noted that their effective planning and prompt response to public concerns played a crucial role in ensuring public safety .
“I commend our security agencies for their commitment and dedication to maintaining law and order. They acted with utmost professionalism and responded promptly to concerns raised by wananchi. We salute them for their effective organisation and meticulous planning,” he stated.
Media and Public Cooperation
The Cabinet Secretary also commended media houses and journalists for their responsible and accurate reporting throughout the day. Their coverage helped keep the public informed while avoiding sensationalism that could have escalated tensions.
Government Stance on Future Protests
Murkomen reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating peaceful demonstrations while firmly addressing individuals who exploit such events to commit crimes or undermine public order.
The government maintains that every Kenyan has the constitutional right to assemble, demonstrate, and present petitions peacefully. However, authorities warned against attempts to disrupt public order or target critical institutions.
Looking Forward
Thursday’s events demonstrated that Kenya can navigate politically sensitive anniversaries without widespread violence.
The combination of proactive security measures, intelligence-led operations, and public cooperation contributed to the peaceful outcome.
The government has indicated that it will continue to balance the protection of constitutional rights with the maintenance of public safety.
As the country approaches the 2027 General Election, the lessons from these demonstrations will likely inform how political gatherings are managed.
Kenya’s democratic maturity was on display, proving that even deeply emotional commemorations can proceed peacefully when all parties adhere to the rule of law.
The success of these security operations may establish a new template for managing public demonstrations in the country.
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