Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged security forces to exercise restraint and professionalism during the upcoming Saba Saba Day protests, while warning against acts of violence and destruction of public property.
Speaking during a public address in Meru County on Sunday, Murkomen stressed that the government is committed to upholding peace and protecting citizen rights, even as tensions rise ahead of the July 7 Saba Saba commemorations.
“POLICE MUST STRIKE A BALANCE,” SAYS MURKOMEN
The CS called on law enforcement to distinguish between peaceful demonstrators and criminal elements, encouraging officers to treat protesters with dignity while clamping down hard on those who incite violence or damage property.
“We have no intention of hurting anyone. Our role is to keep the peace,” Murkomen stated. “But let me be clear—those using violence for political gain are the ones tearing this country apart.”
POLICE BRUTALITY UNDER SCRUTINY
The remarks come amid growing criticism over alleged police brutality during past protests. Civil society groups and human rights defenders have called for greater accountability following incidents where courts, police stations, and public offices were torched in the heat of demonstrations.
Murkomen acknowledged the concerns, urging officers to uphold high standards of conduct, particularly as the nation marks a date tied to Kenya’s fight for multiparty democracy.
“The public blames police for every chaotic protest, but let’s not forget there are groups using demonstrations as cover for criminal activity,” he added.
SECURITY ALERTS AND SCHOOL CLOSURES
Across the country, fear of unrest has prompted several learning institutions to shut down temporarily, advising students to stay home until Tuesday, July 8. In major cities like Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa, businesses have also begun reinforcing their premises, bracing for possible disturbances.
The July 7 Saba Saba Day marks the historic 1990 protests that led to democratic reforms in Kenya. This year, the commemorations take on renewed urgency amid ongoing Gen Z-led protests demanding accountability, reforms, and an end to economic inequality.
GOVERNMENT PLEDGES PEACEFUL ENGAGEMENT
Murkomen reiterated that the government is not opposed to demonstrations, as long as they remain lawful.
“We fully support the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. But we must also protect lives, livelihoods, and public infrastructure,” he said.
The CS concluded his address by calling on all Kenyans—especially the youth—to remain peaceful and reject any calls to engage in lawlessness.
