馃嚢馃嚜KenyaEast Africa
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat assures security for June 25 demonstrations, warns against criminal infiltration
via Tuko2 min read
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has assured the public of comprehensive security measures across Kenya ahead of the June 25 commemorative demonstrations. These protests are planned to honor victims of anti-government demonstrations in 2024 and 2025. Speaking in Mombasa, Lagat emphasized that while police will respect the constitutional right to picket, they will have a zero-tolerance policy towards lawlessness. He warned that any transition from peaceful picketing to vandalism would trigger an immediate law enforcement response. A key focus of the security strategy is preventing organized criminal gangs from infiltrating the demonstrations to loot businesses or assault protestors. Lagat stated that intelligence-led operations have been scaled up nationwide to dismantle these networks before June 25. He urged young people not to be manipulated into violence, declaring that the era of political thuggery is ending. Lagat concluded by reiterating that the public and business owners should proceed with their schedules without fear, as law enforcement remains vigilant to ensure peace.
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Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has cautioned against lawlessness during the planned June 25 memorial protests, stating that security agencies will not tolerate chaos. While acknowledging the right to demonstrate, Lagat emphasized that police will protect businesses and citizens, and anyone causing disorder will be arrested. The protests, spearheaded by Siaya governor James Orengo and other opposition leaders, aim to commemorate the anti-tax demonstrations of 2024. Orengo has called for a "total shutdown" on June 25, urging Kenyans to march to Parliament and participate in vigils across all 47 counties, declaring "no work, no school." Conversely, the Orange Democratic Movement ODM party, led by national chairperson and Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga, has urged its supporters to avoid the protests, stating that the current government has addressed many of their previous concerns. President William Ruto has also criticized calls for a shutdown, emphasizing that Kenya is governed by law and that ventures leading to anarchy will not be tolerated. He affirmed citizens' right to petition but stressed that children must attend school, farmers must farm, and businesses must operate, vowing that the state will not allow chaos to disrupt productivity or destroy property.