Gov't dismisses public holiday claims ahead of Gen Z protest anniversary

Speaking at a press briefing, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura urged Kenyans to go about their normal activities, noting that the country cannot afford further economic disruptions.

"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 6 billion shillings, affecting traders, transport operators, and investors across multiple sectors," Mwaura said.

While recognising the importance of public protests, Mwaura expressed concern over recent demonstrations that turned violent, resulting in loss of lives, injuries, and the widespread destruction of property.

According to him, chaos has marred the demonstrations because criminal elements often infiltrate them, undermining legitimate constitutional freedoms.

Mwaura further noted that the government will not tolerate brutality by police officers against demonstrators, emphasising that such actions will be dealt with to the full extent of the law should they occur. However, he insisted that attacks on law enforcement officers are equally unlawful, noting that the Constitution protects every citizen from violence regardless of their role in society.

"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 noted.

Calling for unity and national cohesion, the government spokesperson urged citizens to commemorate the lives lost in past protests peacefully and responsibly, without engaging in actions that could trigger further instability or destruction.

He also cautioned political leaders against what he described as attempts to exploit public demonstrations for political gain, warning that inflammatory statements could fuel tensions and divide 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.

He added that security agencies have been directed to remain vigilant against any efforts to incite violence, destroy property, or undermine public order.

"Those found culpable will face the full force of the law, regardless of their political status," he noted

Beyond matters of security and public order, Mwaura said the government remains committed to addressing past injustices through a compensation program targeting victims of human rights violations. He announced that compensation payments will begin soon under the Uwiano program.

Meanwhile, Mwaura raised fresh concerns over growing incidents of political intolerance and violence in various parts of the country. He condemned acts of hooliganism and politically motivated attacks, describing them as a threat to national unity.

"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.