Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a statement following the June 25 demonstrations.
Speaking at Harambee House, the CS, Murkomen, commended Kenyans for the peaceful demonstration, as it aligns with the constitutional provisions.
“Firstly, I would like to commend all Kenyans for heeding the Government’s call to maintain peace and go about their daily activities today. I also wish to report that no widespread cases of looting, vandalism, skirmishes, or injuries were reported in them country in relation to today’s demonstrations,” said Murkomen
He noted that while families and friends of victims of previous protests, along with members of the public, held processions in Nairobi and Mombasa, most towns across the country maintained normal business operations.
Government Confirms Peaceful Demonstrations Across Kenya
According to the Interior Ministry, the demonstrations passed without the major incidents feared in the anniversary protests.
Also Read: JUNE 25 PROTESTS UPDATE: Mass Arrests in Kajiado as Police Round Up 123 Youths
“Today is proof that when demonstrations are conducted in accordance with then provisions of our Constitution, peace and security are guaranteed. This is the political culture we should encourage and promote as a country,” added Murkomen.
The Cabinet Secretary said the calmness witnessed across the country reflected what he described as the maturity of Kenya’s politics and governance.
He added that the government remains committed to supporting constitutional rights while ensuring public order is maintained.
Murkomen also acknowledged that demonstrations continue to affect some members of the public who are not directly involved, expressing hope that future protests would have minimal disruption on businesses, commuters and other citizens.
He said peaceful processions were recorded in both Nairobi and Mombasa, where relatives and friends of victims of previous demonstrations joined members of the public in commemorative activities.
355 Arrested as Authorities Crack Down on Criminal Activity
Despite the peaceful demonstration, the government reported that several individuals attempted to commit crimes while posing as demonstrators.
Murkomen said a total of 355 arrests were made across various counties for offenses committed during the demonstrations.
Nairobi recorded the highest number of arrests at 161, followed by Kajiado with 123 and Kiambu with 36. Other arrests were reported in Murang’a, Bungoma, Meru, Laikipia and Machakos counties. The government said no arrests were recorded in the North Eastern, Nyanza and Coast regions.
Murkomen also reported that an Assistant Chief from Kariti Sub-Location in Murang’a County, Anthony Gathungu, sustained injuries after being attacked by a group of individuals attempting to erect a barricade in Kandara.
Gathungu was treated at Kagunduini Health Centre and later discharged in fair condition.
Murkomen commended security officers for what he described as professionalism, effective organisation and careful planning throughout the day.
He also praised journalists and media houses that he said acted responsibly by providing accurate coverage of events as they unfolded.
Also Read: Embassies in Nairobi Closed Amid June 25 Anniversary Protests
Murkomen Alleges Goons Ferried to Nair0bi
The Interior Ministry revealed that security agencies had received intelligence reports that groups of individuals were allegedly being transported from different parts of the country to Nairobi with plans to cause chaos and breach the peace.
In response, security agencies mounted screening operations along major highways leading into the capital early in the morning.
Murkomen said the measures were intended to prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the city and targeting businesses or public property.
“Acting on credible intelligence that goons were being ferried from other parts of the country to cause a breach of peace in Nairobi, our security agencies took measures to protect businesses in the city and avert chaos,” added Murkomen.
The CS stated that the security measures were based on credible intelligence and formed part of a broader plan to maintain law and order during the demonstrations.
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