Keep off protected areas, CS Murkomen, police boss Kanja stern warning ahead of June 25 memorial march
The national security apparatus have mapped possible targets for protesters during tomorrow’s planned nationwide June 25 march in honour of those killed last year in clamour for good governance, an end to runaway corruption and punitive tax policies and warned against attempted access to all protected areas.
In separate media dispatch and briefing today evening, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and the Inspector General of the National Police Service Douglas Kanja affirmed that police officers shall act within the confines of the law to protect lives and property.
The police boss, flanked by other police commanders noted whereas Kenyans have a right to picket, they should do so responsibly in accordance to the law.
Kanja was flanked by Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Administration Police Service (APS) Gilbert Masengeli, Director of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Amin Mohamed, General Service Commandant (GSU) Ranson Lolmodoni, Nairobi county commander George Seda among other senior officers.
IG Kanja also warned against provoking police officers during protests. Following the presser, he avoided taking questions from journalists.
“For avoidance of doubt, Article 37 of the Constitution and also the Penal Code CAP 63, Sections 78 and 82, clearly provide the conditions necessary for a lawful assembly. Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful and riotous assembly. The National Police Service shall at all times lawfully and firmly prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups of persons, acting contrary to the provisions of the law. Additionally, it is important to note that unauthorised persons must refrain from accessing protected areas under the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204, Laws of Kenya),” Kanja said.
On his part, Murkomen questioned the motives behind recent calls for Gen Z-led protests, suggesting that the organisers are inciting chaos without a clear justification.
“You hear people calling for protests and so on, yet when you ask why, their reasons don’t add up,” he remarked during a breakfast meeting with FKF Premier League champions Kenya Police FC at State House.
The CS also defended Kenya’s security forces, praising them as some of the most patriotic citizens in the country, despite the severe economic and logistical constraints they operate under.
He commended their discipline and unwavering commitment to upholding the law, even in the face of relentless provocation and threats of violence.
“Despite economic hardships, limited resources, and immense pressure, they remain steadfast. Our men and women in uniform are the true guardians of peace and stability in this country,” he stated.
