June 25 Not a Public Holiday, Government Assures Kenyans Ahead of Planned Protests

By Mercy Otieno

The government has clarified that June 25 will remain a normal working day and has not been declared a public holiday, despite planned nationwide demonstrations marking the anniversary of the 2024 anti-government protests.

Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura assured Kenyans that security agencies have put in place adequate measures to guarantee the safety of citizens and protect property during the planned demonstrations.

"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," said Dr. Mwaura.

The spokesperson emphasized that the Constitution of Kenya, under Article 37, guarantees every citizen the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions peacefully. However, he cautioned that criminal acts carried out under the guise of protests would not be tolerated.

"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," he said.

Dr. Mwaura warned against acts of violence, looting, vandalism, and attacks on law enforcement officers, noting that such actions undermine the spirit of peaceful demonstrations and pose a threat to public safety.

At the same time, he acknowledged growing public concern over allegations of police brutality during previous protests, stating that any misuse of force by security personnel is unacceptable and should be addressed through the law. He added that police officers nonetheless have a constitutional and legal duty to maintain public order and intervene when demonstrations turn violent.

The government spokesperson further called on political leaders, civil society groups, and protest organizers to ensure that the planned demonstrations remain peaceful and are not infiltrated by criminal elements seeking to cause unrest.

"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 added.

The planned June 25 demonstrations are expected to honor victims of the 2024 anti-government protests, which left dozens of people dead, hundreds injured, and caused significant damage to public and private property in several parts of the country.

As the date approaches, the government has urged all Kenyans to exercise their constitutional freedoms responsibly, obey the law, and promote peace and national unity.

Authorities have reiterated that businesses, schools, government offices, and other institutions are expected to operate normally on June 25, while security agencies remain on high alert to ensure public safety throughout the day.