Murkomen Explains Nairobi Security Deployment Ahead of June 25 Gen Z Memorial Protests
Long traffic queues formed on several highways, with commuters experiencing significant delays during the morning rush hour.
Photo: Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the heightened security presence in and around Nairobi, saying the deployment of officers along major roads and entry points is intended to safeguard lives, protect property and ensure the smooth continuation of lawful activities during the June 25 Gen Z memorial demonstrations.
In a public advisory issued ahead of the planned protests, Murkomen reaffirmed that every Kenyan has a constitutional right to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions peacefully, while urging participants to conduct themselves responsibly and respect both public and private property.
The Cabinet Secretary said security agencies had been strategically deployed across key transport corridors and critical installations to facilitate peaceful demonstrations while maintaining public order.
“Every Kenyan has the right to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions peacefully,” Murkomen said.
He added that the security measures were not meant to hinder lawful demonstrations but to provide protection for citizens, businesses and infrastructure during the commemorative events.
According to the Interior Ministry, the deployment is aimed at ensuring public safety while minimizing disruptions to daily activities across the capital and other parts of the country.
“Security agencies have been deployed to keep people safe, protect property and critical infrastructure, and support the continuation of lawful activities with minimal disruption,” the ministry said in the advisory.
The security operation comes as thousands of Kenyans are expected to participate in memorial processions marking the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 protests, which left dozens of people dead and triggered widespread calls for accountability and reforms.
Authorities have encouraged demonstrators to cooperate with security officers and event organisers to ensure that all activities remain peaceful and within the law.
The advisory further reminded participants to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and avoid actions that could endanger other citizens or interfere with lawful business operations.
“Respect fellow citizens, businesses and public property. Keep demonstrations peaceful and lawful,” the ministry stated.
The increased security presence was visible across Nairobi and surrounding areas on Thursday morning, with roadblocks, checkpoints and vehicle screening exercises reported along several major routes leading into the city.
Motorists travelling along Waiyaki Way, Thika Road, Ngong Road and Lang’ata Road reported delays as security officers conducted checks on vehicles entering the capital. Similar operations were reported on roads connecting Nairobi to Kiambu, Ruiru, Githurai and Rongai.
Long traffic queues formed on several highways, with commuters experiencing significant delays during the morning rush hour. In some locations, public service vehicles were reportedly turned back or subjected to additional security inspections.
Heavy police deployment was also observed within Nairobi’s central business district and around key government installations, transport hubs and strategic junctions.
The government has maintained that the measures are necessary to facilitate peaceful assembly while preventing criminal activity and protecting critical infrastructure from potential damage.
The June 25 memorial demonstrations are expected to honour those who lost their lives during last year’s anti-government protests while renewing calls for justice, accountability and reforms.
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