Police issues a statement ahead of Gen Z's 25th demonstrations

Kenyan Gen Z are preparing for protests and a memorial service on June 25 to honor their peers who lost their lives during last year’s demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

The protests, which saw young people storming Parliament, ended tragically with the deaths of several demonstrators.

The recent killing of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody has further fueled the outrage among the youth. Ojwang was allegedly detained for posting defamatory remarks about Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

In a separate incident, a mask seller named Benjamin Kariuki was shot point-blank by police and is currently fighting for his life in the ICU. These incidents have intensified calls for justice and accountability from the police force, leading to widespread distrust among citizens.

In response to the escalating tensions and planned protests, the National Police Service issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to professionalism and human rights.

“The Service is apolitical, with operational independence under the Office of the Inspector General of Police, and is obligated under Article 244(a) and (c) of the Constitution to strive for the highest standards of professionalism and discipline among its members,” the statement read.

The police also acknowledged the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, stating, “The Constitution, under Article 37 guarantees every person the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket, and to present petitions to public authorities.”

The police have warned that any assembly deemed unlawful would be addressed firmly: “Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful, and a riotous assembly. The National Police Service shall at all times lawfully and firmly prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups of persons.”

Despite these assurances, many Kenyans remain skeptical about the police's intentions, particularly after reports emerged of police collaborating with goons to disperse demonstrators during previous protests. The police's call for cooperation has not alleviated fears; instead, it has raised concerns about potential violence as tensions between the youth and law enforcement escalate.

As the planned protests approach, the National Police Service reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property: “We assure the public that we will continue pursuing and dismantling criminal networks, to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans.” However, with trust in the police waning, many are left wondering whether these promises will translate into action on the ground.

Tomorrow's demonstrations are poised to be a significant moment for Kenyan youth as they seek justice for their fallen comrades and demand accountability from those in power. As they prepare to take to the streets once more, the eyes of the nation will be watching closely.

Kenyan Gen Z are preparing for protests and a memorial service on June 25 to honor their peers who lost their lives during last year’s demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

The protests, which saw young people storming Parliament, ended tragically with the deaths of several demonstrators.

The recent killing of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody has further fueled the outrage among the youth. Ojwang was allegedly detained for posting defamatory remarks about Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.

In a separate incident, a mask seller named Benjamin Kariuki was shot point-blank by police and is currently fighting for his life in the ICU. These incidents have intensified calls for justice and accountability from the police force, leading to widespread distrust among citizens.

In response to the escalating tensions and planned protests, the National Police Service issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to professionalism and human rights.

“The Service is apolitical, with operational independence under the Office of the Inspector General of Police, and is obligated under Article 244(a) and (c) of the Constitution to strive for the highest standards of professionalism and discipline among its members,” the statement read.

The police also acknowledged the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, stating, “The Constitution, under Article 37 guarantees every person the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket, and to present petitions to public authorities.”

The police have warned that any assembly deemed unlawful would be addressed firmly: “Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful, and a riotous assembly. The National Police Service shall at all times lawfully and firmly prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups of persons.”

Despite these assurances, many Kenyans remain skeptical about the police's intentions, particularly after reports emerged of police collaborating with goons to disperse demonstrators during previous protests. The police's call for cooperation has not alleviated fears; instead, it has raised concerns about potential violence as tensions between the youth and law enforcement escalate.

As the planned protests approach, the National Police Service reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property: “We assure the public that we will continue pursuing and dismantling criminal networks, to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans.” However, with trust in the police waning, many are left wondering whether these promises will translate into action on the ground.

Tomorrow's demonstrations are poised to be a significant moment for Kenyan youth as they seek justice for their fallen comrades and demand accountability from those in power. As they prepare to take to the streets once more, the eyes of the nation will be watching closely.