National Police Service spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga has assured the public that security officers will be vigilant in maintaining peace and order during the planned June 25 protests, while urging demonstrators to respect the boundaries of protected areas.
Speaking on a local media station on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Nyaga expressed empathy for young people participating in the protests, noting that as a parent himself, he understands the pain of losing a child in avoidable circumstances.
“These events are very clear in our minds. The inspector general has talked about them openly,” he said, referring to past protests.
“I have children as young as they are. Even when you talk about some of these things, for instance, a parent who suddenly loses a child, I also try to put myself in that perspective and I wonder how it would be like to lose a child, especially in circumstances that are completely avoidable,” Nyaga reflected.
Collaborate with protesters
He confirmed that police had received and acknowledged a petition from protest organisers, committing to work closely with the conveners.
“The police have said yes, we’ll collaborate, we’ll work very closely with the conveners and ensure that their pursuits and exactly what they want is going to be made,” he stated.
Nyaga emphasised the role of the National Police Service in safeguarding the rights of citizens to protest while ensuring adherence to the law.
“It’s the responsibility of the police as a security agency to ensure that whatever happens tomorrow, the police are there to watch, to assist and to maintain law and order,” he said.
Protected areas
However, Nyaga issued a stern reminder about protected areas, citing the Protected Areas Act, which designates certain locations as protected zones.
“We have very clear laws in this country, and often we forget to read and understand them. Protected areas are exactly that — areas protected by the law. Parliament is a protected area. State House is a protected area. There are many others designated as protected areas, and it is a fact we must respect,” he explained.
He called for cooperation between security forces and the public, reminding Kenyans that the country’s peace and stability are a collective responsibility.
“This is not just a responsibility for the police and the security agencies alone, but also for the good people of Kenya, that together we can work it out. We can move along, can march and pass our message,” he added.
