Nairobi Police Boss Outlines Measures for June 25 Protests, Promises Safety
Kenyans planning to participate in the upcoming demonstrations on Wednesday, June 25, have been assured of their safety by the police.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Sedah stated that the police service has made comprehensive arrangements to ensure that all citizens are protected during the protests.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, June 18, Sedah said that the security team had already put in place what he described as “enhanced plans” in preparation for the day.
He stressed that the police are committed to maintaining law and order and will be present to safeguard all individuals, including protestors and the general public.
“We are going to offer proper and sufficient security for every Kenyan,” Sedah affirmed. “Whether you are participating in the protest or just going about your business, we want to ensure that you remain safe.”
Sedah also confirmed that his office had received formal communication from a group of activists notifying authorities of their intention to hold peaceful demonstrations.
The letter, which was delivered to the Central Police Station, outlined that the protests are being organised in honour of the young people, mainly from Generation Z, who lost their lives during the anti-Finance Bill protests in 2024.
However, the police commander also issued a stern warning against anyone attempting to engage in violence or provoke the officers who will be deployed to maintain order.
He referred to the recent demonstrations held on Thursday, June 12, where clashes were witnessed between some protestors and masked police officers on patrol.
Sedah called on demonstrators to embrace peaceful ways of expressing their grievances. He reminded the public that June 25 will be a working day and that many Nairobi residents will be carrying out business activities in the city centre.
Any disruptions caused by violence, he said, would only hurt the image and purpose of the protest.
“We start looking like a lawless society when protests that begin peacefully suddenly turn chaotic and violent,” Sedah said. “It defeats the entire logic and objective of a protest. When things get out of hand, the situation becomes even worse for everyone involved.”
Despite the police commander’s reassurance, there is growing skepticism among Kenyans about whether the authorities will uphold their promise, especially in light of recent accusations of police misconduct and brutality.
Over the years, security forces have faced repeated criticism for their heavy-handed tactics, particularly when handling protests.
One recent case that intensified public outrage occurred on Tuesday, June 17, when a police officer was caught on camera shooting at a street vendor selling masks during a demonstration in the Nairobi central business district.
The officer involved, Masinde Baraza, was arrested following the incident. He, along with another officer, Duncan Kiprono—who was filmed physically assaulting the same vendor, Boniface Kariuki—has since been interdicted from duty.
Moreover, there have been growing concerns that police officers have been working in collaboration with criminal elements who infiltrate protests to loot shops, harass citizens, and destroy property. In several instances, such thugs have been seen committing these acts with no police intervention.
With tensions high and trust in law enforcement already strained, many Kenyans are now closely watching to see if the police will remain true to their word and ensure a peaceful and secure environment for protestors on June 25.
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