Gov't warns against violence, looting during protests

The government has issued a strong warning against rising cases of violence, destruction of property and criminal infiltration of public demonstrations, urging Kenyans to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly while safeguarding national unity, peace and economic stability.

Speaking during the prize giving day at Chinga Boys Senior School in Nyeri County, Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo emphasized that democracy can only thrive where citizens respect the rule of law and exercise their freedoms with responsibility.

Dr. Omollo cautioned that acts of violence, looting, vandalism and attacks on innocent citizens during demonstrations threaten Kenya’s hard-earned development gains and undermine the country's democratic foundations.

"The Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to demonstrate, picket and petition public authorities. However, these rights must be exercised peacefully, lawfully and with respect for the rights and safety of others," said the PS.

In what appeared to be a firm message to individuals exploiting protests to engage in criminal activities, Dr. Omollo stressed that there is a clear distinction between legitimate civic action and lawlessness.

"Burning businesses, looting property, attacking fellow citizens and destroying public infrastructure does not advance any cause. Such acts only destroy livelihoods, scare away investment and weaken the very nation we seek to build," he stated.

The security chief reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting constitutional freedoms while maintaining public order, warning that security agencies will continue facilitating peaceful demonstrations but will take decisive action against criminals hiding behind constitutional rights.

He further challenged political leaders, parents, teachers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to promote a culture of peaceful coexistence, responsibility and national cohesion.

"As we build our country, let us choose dialogue over destruction, responsibility over recklessness and unity over division. The values we embrace today will determine the future of our nation," he said.

Dr. Omollo also highlighted the government's continued investment in education, describing it as the most powerful tool for social transformation and economic empowerment.

He revealed that the education sector continues to receive the largest share of the national budget, with allocations surpassing Ksh.740 billion in the current financial year, compared to approximately Ksh.500 billion when the Kenya Kwanza Administration took office.

According to the PS, the increased funding demonstrates the government's commitment to equipping learners with the knowledge, skills and values required to compete in a rapidly changing world.

"Education remains the greatest equaliser. Through education, we create opportunities, unlock potential and prepare young people to become productive citizens and future leaders," he said.

The PS noted that the government has intensified investments in school infrastructure, teacher recruitment and implementation of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework to ensure learners are prepared for diverse career pathways.

He also lauded bursary programs under the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and other support initiatives that continue to assist vulnerable learners in accessing education.

Addressing students directly, Dr. Omollo challenged young people to uphold discipline, integrity, respect and personal responsibility, noting that academic excellence alone is insufficient without strong character.

"Knowledge alone is not enough. Character matters. Integrity matters. Discipline matters. Respect matters. The future belongs to those who combine education with responsibility," he told the learners.

He urged students to reject drug abuse, alcoholism, bullying and other destructive behaviours that threaten their future prospects.

The Principal Secretary further underscored the importance of school safety, calling learning institutions critical centers for nurturing responsible citizens and future leaders.

He appealed to parents, teachers, school administrators and communities to work together in ensuring schools remain secure, supportive and conducive environments for learning.

"Our schools must remain safe spaces. Every child deserves an environment where they can learn, grow and pursue their dreams without fear," he said.

Dr. Omollo commended Chinga Boys Senior School for its outstanding contribution to academic excellence, leadership development and character formation, describing it as a model institution built on strong collaboration between teachers, parents, students and alumni.

He congratulated students who received awards and encouraged them to remain focused, disciplined and committed to achieving their ambitions.

"The nation we build tomorrow depends on the character, discipline and sense of responsibility we nurture today. Education, school safety and responsible citizenship must remain a shared responsibility for all Kenyans," he concluded.

Also present at the event was Principal Secretary for Energy Alex Wachira alongside local leaders and education stakeholders.