As Kenya approaches the anniversary of the June 25 anti-government protests, President William Ruto has issued a stern warning against any activities that could descend into disorder, destruction of property, or disruption of critical services.
The President maintained that although the Constitution safeguards the right to demonstrate, that right must be exercised in a manner that upholds public order and national stability.
Speaking on Friday, June 19 at the National Productivity and Performance Conference at State House, Nairobi, Ruto said the country must continue to prioritise peace, order, and productivity even as citizens exercise their constitutional freedoms.
He reiterated that the government respects and protects the right to peaceful demonstrations but emphasised that such freedoms carry responsibilities and should not undermine national stability or economic progress.
“We are a country that believes viciously in order, we are a civilised nation, we are an organised society, we believe in the rule of law,” the President said, stressing the need for discipline as political tensions build ahead of the anniversary.
Ruto further stated that workers across the country should be assured of a secure environment in which to carry out their duties, cautioning that instability could derail ongoing development programmes and economic growth efforts.
His remarks come amid increased political activity and public discourse surrounding the June 25 anniversary, a date that has become closely associated with protests and heightened tensions in various urban centres in recent years.
As authorities continue to monitor developments, members of the diplomatic community have also expressed concern over the situation.
The United States Embassy in Nairobi recently issued a security advisory alerting its citizens to the possibility of demonstrations in different parts of the country, particularly in major urban areas such as Nairobi.
In its notice, the embassy warned that protests could occur with little or no warning and might result in road closures, traffic interruptions, and increased security deployments, especially within Nairobi's central business district.
The advisory highlights growing international attention on the anniversary period, which has previously been marked by large-scale demonstrations and clashes between protesters and security personnel.
Beyond security concerns, Ruto used the conference to advocate for a stronger national focus on productivity and economic transformation.
He noted that every Kenyan is entitled to air grievances through lawful avenues, including demonstrations and petitions, but warned that the government would not tolerate attempts to incite unrest or engage in the destruction of property.
