Kenya is preparing for nationwide demonstrations scheduled for Thursday, June 25, as youth-led groups and activists plan protests to mark the anniversary of the 2024 anti-government demonstrations. Organizers say the protests will focus on governance, accountability, economic challenges, and the rights of young people.
President William Ruto has urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and operate within the law. Speaking at recent public events, the President warned that security agencies would take action against individuals who engage in violence, destruction of property, or other unlawful activities during the demonstration.
Ruto also accused some opposition figures of attempting to sponsor or influence the planned protests for political purposes, a claim that opposition leaders have previously denied.
The President emphasized that while the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and protest, demonstrations should not result in loss of life, destruction of businesses, or disruption of livelihoods. He called for an end to what he described as a recurring cycle of violence that harms citizens, businesses, and the country's democratic institutions.
The planned Thursday protests come amid continued political tensions and public debate over the government's economic policies. Security agencies have announced preparations to maintain order, while human rights groups have called on both protesters and police to act responsibly and respect constitutional rights.
Observers will be closely watching the demonstrations, which are expected to draw large crowds in major cities including Nairobi, as Kenya marks a significant moment in its recent political history.