NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 25 — Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has hailed the largely peaceful conduct of demonstrations marking the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests, saying security agencies successfully prevented criminal elements from disrupting commemorative events held across the country.

📻 Breaking It Down

In a national security update on Thursday evening, Murkomen said 355 people were arrested for various offences linked to the demonstrations, even as authorities reported no widespread incidents of looting, vandalism, violence or injuries.

“Today is proof that when demonstrations are conducted in accordance with the provisions of our Constitution, peace and security are guaranteed,” Murkomen said.

He described the commemorations as a “testament to the maturity” of Kenya’s politics and governance, arguing that public protests can be held without descending into disorder.

📌 What You Need to Know

The commemorations, which drew families of victims of previous protests, activists and members of the public in Nairobi, Mombasa and other towns, unfolded under one of the most extensive security operations mounted in recent months as authorities sought to prevent a repeat of the violence witnessed during some past demonstrations.

According to the Interior Ministry, security agencies acted on intelligence reports indicating that criminal gangs were allegedly being mobilised and transported into Nairobi to infiltrate the protests and cause unrest.

As a result, police mounted extensive screening operations along major highways leading into the capital from the early morning hours, significantly affecting transport and movement into the city.

Murkomen acknowledged the disruption caused to commuters and motorists but defended the measures as necessary to safeguard businesses, critical infrastructure and public order.

“Relative calm prevailed in the city and its environs. We regret the inconveniences occasioned by these measures, and at the same time appreciate their effectiveness in securing the city and other parts of the country,” he said.

For much of the day, Nairobi’s Central Business District remained unusually quiet, with reduced traffic, shuttered businesses and limited public transport access.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya