Murkomen explains police deployment and road closures ahead of June 25 Gen Z protests in Nairobi
via Tuko1 min read
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has clarified the deployment of heavily armed police and road closures in Nairobi ahead of the planned June 25 Gen Z demonstrations. On June 25, increased security, including roadblocks and checkpoints, caused traffic disruptions on major transport corridors like Waiyaki Way, Thika Road, Ngong Road, and Lang'ata Road. Public transport was redirected, and motorists faced additional security checks. Murkomen stated that the officers' objective is to support lawful activities with minimal disruption during the anticipated memorial demonstrations. He affirmed the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, and petitioning, urging participants to act lawfully and respect property. According to Murkomen, these security measures aim to facilitate constitutional rights while ensuring public safety and protecting critical installations.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
Must ReadOpposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Martha Karua, James Orengo, and David Maraga, along with families of victims from the June 2024 anti-government protests, laid wreaths on barbed wire barricades surrounding Kenya's parliament. This symbolic tribute honored those who died during the demonstrations. Heavily armed police prevented the group from accessing the parliament, forcing them to place the wreaths on the razor wire. The event, part of the commemoration of the June 25 protests, saw relatives, activists, and political leaders call for justice and accountability for those killed and injured. Participants observed moments of silence and carried flowers, photographs, and placards bearing the names of the deceased.
Must ReadKenyan youth have initiated anniversary protests across the country to commemorate over 60 Gen Zs who died during the June 25, 2024 demonstrations. These earlier protests were a response to a controversial Finance Bill that was passed by the National Assembly despite widespread rejection. The government has issued conflicting statements regarding the planned demonstrations; Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen acknowledged receiving notice of the protests, while Nairobi Region Police Commander Issa Mohammed denied it. Police have barricaded major roads leading to the Nairobi Central Business District, including Thika Superhighway, Waiyaki Way, Jogoo Road, and Mombasa Road, to prevent protesters from accessing the capital. Access to the CBD is restricted to essential service providers. Surveillance has been increased around government installations, particularly the Parliament buildings, where roads are blocked with barbed wire and police officers are stationed to confront protesters.
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