Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura Warns Against Violence Ahead of June 25 Protests, Announces Support for Gikomba Fire Victims

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting constitutional freedoms while warning against violence and destruction of property ahead of the planned June 25 demonstrations.

Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi on Monday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said Kenyans remain free to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions as provided for under Article 37 of the Constitution. However, he cautioned that peaceful protests should not be hijacked by criminal elements seeking to cause chaos and economic losses.

Mwaura noted that while the government recognizes the importance of public demonstrations in a democratic society, recent protests have resulted in deaths, injuries and extensive damage to businesses and public infrastructure.

"The right to protest is guaranteed by the Constitution, but no one has the right to destroy property, attack others or disrupt the lives and livelihoods of fellow citizens," he said.

The spokesperson emphasized that police brutality remains unacceptable and must be addressed whenever it occurs. At the same time, he condemned attacks on security officers, saying all citizens are entitled to protection under the law.

As Kenyans prepare to mark the first anniversary of the Gen Z protests, Mwaura clarified that June 25 will not be a public holiday and urged citizens to continue with their normal economic activities. He said the country is still recovering from losses incurred during previous demonstrations, which the government estimates exceeded Sh6 billion.

The government also announced that compensation for victims of human rights violations will begin soon under the Uwiano Programme. According to Mwaura, the initiative has received a Sh2 billion allocation from Parliament and seeks to compensate victims of violations dating back to 2017.

More than 1,500 claims have already been verified, including those involving families who lost loved ones, survivors of serious injuries and victims of sexual violence during periods of unrest.

Mwaura said the programme is aimed at promoting restorative justice, healing and national reconciliation while allowing ongoing investigations and prosecutions to proceed independently.

On the recent fire that devastated sections of Gikomba Market, the government assured affected traders that support measures are being coordinated to help them recover from the losses.

He described the incident as a major economic setback for hundreds of traders who depend on the market for their daily income. The National Disaster Operations Centre, working alongside Nairobi County and other agencies, has begun assessing the extent of the damage and identifying immediate interventions for affected businesses.

The government has also appealed for patience as investigations into the cause of the fire get underway. Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid speculation and allow investigators to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

Meanwhile, Mwaura expressed concern over increasing cases of political intolerance and violence in various parts of the country, warning that such actions threaten national unity and democratic freedoms.

He said security agencies have been instructed to remain vigilant and take firm action against individuals involved in organizing, financing or carrying out acts of political violence, regardless of their political affiliation.

The government further called on political leaders to embrace tolerance, responsible leadership and peaceful engagement as the country begins preparations for the 2027 General Election.