NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 19 – President William Ruto has cautioned against any attempts to disrupt public life as the country approaches the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations that shook the nation and left dozens dead.

📻 Breaking It Down

Speaking during the National Productivity and Performance Conference at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, the President said Kenya must remain focused on economic growth, warning that acts of violence, destruction of property and disruption of essential services would not be tolerated.

The Head of State stressed that schools, businesses, farms and workplaces must continue operating uninterrupted, saying national development depends on maintaining productivity across all sectors.

“We will not allow anyone to destroy property, create chaos or interfere with the normal functioning of the country. Children must be in school, workers must report to their jobs, businesses must remain open and farmers must continue producing so that we can keep moving the country forward,” President Ruto said.

📌 What You Need to Know

His remarks come amid heightened anticipation ahead of June 25, when Kenyans are expected to commemorate the nationwide protests against the Finance Bill 2024. The demonstrations, largely driven by Gen Z activists, evolved into broader protests over governance, taxation and accountability, resulting in the deaths of at least 67 people, according to rights groups.

As the anniversary approaches, foreign missions and security agencies have intensified monitoring of the situation amid expectations of fresh demonstrations in major towns and cities.

On Thursday, the United States Embassy in Nairobi issued a security alert to American citizens, warning that protests could occur in different parts of the country, particularly in Nairobi’s Central Business District and other urban centres.

The embassy noted that while demonstrations could take place at any time, the likelihood of gatherings was expected to increase around June 25, potentially leading to traffic congestion, road closures and disruptions to movement.

“June 25 marks the anniversary of protests that occurred in Kenya during the past two years. Demonstrations may occur at any time, but the potential for protests is higher around June 25,” the embassy said in its advisory.

American citizens were advised to avoid large crowds and demonstration sites, monitor local media for updates, review their personal security plans and remain alert to changing conditions. The embassy also urged travellers to keep vehicle doors locked, windows rolled up and to carry identification documents at all times.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya