Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja. /JOHNSON SAKAJA/X
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has urged Kenyans to reject attempts to hijack legitimate causes and to avoid inciting violence during the planned June 25 Occupy Parliament commemoration protests.
In a video message shared on Sunday, Sakaja said his administration would not allow criminal elements to exploit the democratic space and bring anarchy to peaceful demonstrations.
"I urge all Kenyans and the people of Nairobi to reject violence and criminal behaviour as they take to the streets this coming week. I have spoken to the command of the police to assure peaceful demonstrators that they will be protected as they express their rights," Sakaja said.
The governor called on participants to uphold the constitution and demonstrate peacefully within the confines of the law.
He emphasised that while the police are expected to safeguard protesters, they also have a duty to protect lives and property.
"Let everyone respect the law. Violence, riots, chaos are not signs of democracy and there will be no such going forward," he warned.
"We will protect our city and beloved country in accordance with the law," he added.
On Wednesday June 25, Kenyans are expected to hold nationwide protests to commemorate those who died during the June 2024 demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill.
The protests aim to honour victims of police brutality during the peaceful revolt that turned bloody on June 25, 2024, when protesters, mostly youth known as Gen Z, overran security barricades and invaded Parliament.
Civil society groups, youth activists and opposition leaders have called for peaceful assemblies, urging participants to remain non-violent and within the bounds of the law.
However, concerns have emerged over the possibility of criminal gangs infiltrating the protests to incite chaos or discredit the movement.
Authorities have pledged to provide security for peaceful demonstrators while warning that any violent disruptions will be dealt with firmly.
