Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo has appealed to police to allow the upcoming June 25 demonstrations to proceed without interference, calling for peace and respect for constitutional rights.
The protests, marking the first anniversary of the 2024 Occupy Parliament movement, are expected to draw large crowds across Nairobi and other cities in remembrance of those injured or killed during last year’s demonstrations against the now-withdrawn 2024 Finance Bill.
Speaking during the burial of Eng John Thoya, son of former minister Karisa Maitha, Madzayo emphasized the importance of non-violence and warned against police brutality. “We are saying we do not want to hear any violence of any form. We do not want to hear people were beaten and killed,” he said. “Do not use your officers to harm our children.”
The senator assured the authorities that the demonstrations organized by Gen Z activists and opposition leaders including Wiper Party’s Kalonzo Musyoka will be peaceful, featuring rallies and candlelight vigils. He reminded protesters to maintain order and peace throughout.
The Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda confirmed that law enforcement is aware of the planned demonstrations and has prepared “enhanced plans” to ensure public safety. “The letter that was delivered to the central police station, we are equally having that copy of their intents,” Seda stated during a press briefing on June 18.
However, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula issued a strong caution against any potential unrest, asserting that any disruption of peace would not be tolerated. He also warned youth against being manipulated for political motives. “Don’t be drawn into political issues that are not yours… We must rise above borrowed hatred,” he said.
Last year’s protests, driven by youth-led movements and amplified through social media under hashtags like #RejectFinanceBill2024 and #OccupyParliament, were largely peaceful but saw incidents of police violence that left several dead and dozens injured.
As the June 25 anniversary approaches, the message from both leaders and law enforcement is clear: peaceful demonstrations are a constitutional right but must remain non-violent, respectful, and secure for all involved.
