The government has dismissed reports circulating on social media and in political circles suggesting that Thursday, June 25, will be declared a public holiday to mark the anniversary of the Gen Z protests.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, June 24, 2026, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura urged Kenyans to continue with their daily activities, stressing that the country cannot afford further economic disruptions as businesses continue recovering from the effects of previous demonstrations.
Mwaura noted that recent protests resulted in significant economic losses, affecting traders, transport operators, and investors across multiple sectors.
“The country cannot afford further economic disruptions at a time when businesses are still recovering from previous protests. The government estimates that recent demonstrations caused losses of more than Ksh6 billion,” Mwaura said.
The spokesperson acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to assemble and demonstrate but expressed concern over incidents where peaceful protests have turned violent, leading to deaths, injuries, and destruction of property.
According to Mwaura, criminal elements have increasingly infiltrated demonstrations, undermining legitimate expressions of public dissent and creating security challenges.
He emphasized that the government would not tolerate police brutality against demonstrators and warned that officers found violating the law would face appropriate action. At the same time, he cautioned that attacks on law enforcement officers are equally unlawful and unacceptable.
“Once a peaceful gathering becomes violent, law enforcement agencies are legally empowered to intervene and restore order. The challenge is balancing the right to protest with the rights of other citizens to work, conduct business, and move freely without disruption,” he stated.
Speaking during an interview with Phil Director, Mwaura called on Kenyans to commemorate those who lost their lives during past protests in a peaceful and responsible manner, without engaging in activities that could trigger instability or destruction.
He also criticized political leaders accused of exploiting public demonstrations for political gain, warning that inflammatory rhetoric could heighten tensions across the country.
“Some political actors have been making reckless allegations and encouraging confrontational politics at the expense of national stability. Democratic competition must be conducted within the confines of the law and respect for constitutional institutions,” Mwaura said.
The government spokesperson further revealed that security agencies have been directed to remain vigilant against any attempts to incite violence, destroy property, or disrupt public order.
“Those found culpable will face the full force of the law, regardless of their political status,” he added.
Beyond security concerns, Mwaura reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing historical injustices through a compensation programme for victims of human rights violations. He announced that compensation payments under the Uwiano programme would begin soon.
He also raised concerns about increasing cases of political intolerance and violence in various parts of the country, describing such incidents as a threat to national unity and democratic participation.
“Violence targeting political opponents undermines constitutional freedoms and denies citizens the opportunity to participate freely in democratic processes. Security agencies have been directed to intensify surveillance and enforcement measures in identified hotspots,” he concluded.
As preparations for the June 25 anniversary continue, the government has maintained that while citizens are free to exercise their constitutional rights, they should do so peacefully and without disrupting economic activities or the rights of other Kenyans.
