National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Michael Muchiri has warned business owners against hiring youths to guard their premises during protests, saying the move is unlawful and amounts to vigilantism.
Speaking during an interview on a local radio station on Monday, June 23, 2025, Muchiri stressed that security is solely the responsibility of the police.
Vigilantism not allowed
Responding to a caller concerned about business safety ahead of the June 25, 2025, protests, Muchiri said “Kweli tumeona watu wamejiami na marungu. Wanabiashara wanasema ‘hatutakubali biashara zetu ziharibiwe’ – lakini wakome. Hakuna sheria inapatia wananchi haki ya kuajiri vijana wachunge biashara. Hiyo ni uvunjaji wa sheria wa hali ya juu.”
He emphasized that business owners must not take matters into their own hands and warned that any youth groups formed for protection purposes would face legal action.
“Ni jukumu ya polisi kuhakikisha wananchi na mali yao wanalindwa,” he affirmed.
Business owners warned
Muchiri acknowledged the growing anxiety among traders but insisted that forming private security units would only escalate tensions and undermine law enforcement.
“Any youth hired to act as a guard force is acting outside the law,” he said, calling on business owners to rely on police deployment for protection.
He urged Kenyans to report threats to the authorities instead of arming themselves or engaging informal groups.
Tense anniversary
His remarks come just two days before the planned Gen Z Anniversary protests on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 a day youth-led movements have declared as one of remembrance and peaceful resistance.
Opposition leaders and civil groups say they will take to the streets to honor lives lost during the 2024 demonstrations triggered by the now-withdrawn Finance Bill.
The 2024 protests drew thousands to major towns across the country, demanding accountability and reforms. Multiple fatalities and injuries were reported following clashes with police.
While the government has yet to comment, Nairobi Regional Commander George Seda has assured the public that police will be on standby to ensure safety for all.
“We have a plan and will provide good security for those participating and those not,” Seda stated.
