The government of Kenya has issued a formal diplomatic update to all heads of missions in Nairobi following the violent protests that erupted on June 25, 2025, leading to the loss of lives, injuries, and widespread destruction of property.
In a strongly worded statement delivered by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, the government expressed deep regret over the casualties and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the affected families.
The statement, issued on his official X account under the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, also commended security forces for exercising restraint in the face of what was termed “extreme provocation.”
“We commend our security personnel for their professionalism and presence under difficult circumstances. Their role in preventing further escalation and protecting lives and property is greatly appreciated,” Mudavadi said.
The protests, initially organised to commemorate victims of the 2024 demonstrations, reportedly degenerated into chaos, with elements identified as extremists engaging in looting, arson, and attacks on law enforcement and public infrastructure. Businesses—some owned by foreign investors—were targeted in the unrest, leading to significant economic losses.
“To condone such violence is tantamount to promoting anarchy and lawlessness,” he stated, questioning, “Who will compensate these business owners? Who will replace their losses?”
The government maintained that while the Constitution guarantees the right to protest, those rights are not absolute. Citing Articles 19, 20, and 37, Mudavadi emphasised that public demonstrations must remain peaceful and within the confines of the law. He criticised the protest organisers for failing to maintain order and questioned whether their actions met the legal obligations required for lawful assembly.
The statement also flagged attempts by protesters to access police armouries and vandalise key public infrastructure—including roads, water systems, and railways—as acts of economic sabotage, not peaceful dissent.
Mudavadi further highlighted the importance of safeguarding national institutions, warning that their collapse poses the greatest threat to Kenya’s security and stability, especially given the volatile regional environment in the Horn of Africa.
“Given the geopolitical challenges and ongoing security concerns in the Horn of Africa, should one condone the government for ensuring security and stability when set in the purported peaceful demonstrations? The government acknowledges the need for a balanced approach to maintaining law and order while respecting the rights to peaceful assembly,” he added.
Acknowledging support from international partners for peaceful protest rights, Mudavadi stressed the need for balance between freedom and responsibility.
Violence has no place in society, and we cannot hide behind the excuse of protesting to destroy private property. Is that a form of protest? What was the objective of such actions? These questions demand honest reflection to ensure our nation’s peace and security,” he said.
Mudavadi concluded by extending appreciation to the diplomatic corps for their continued cooperation, expressing Kenya’s commitment to stability, investor protection, and constructive international engagement.
