Nyanza police pledge security for Gen Z memorial demonstrations

Nyanza Regional Police Commander Evelyn Nyamohanga Gisiri has urged those who plan to take part in the Gen Z protest tomorrow to conduct themselves peacefully. [ Clinton Ambujo, Standard]

Nyanza Regional Police Commander Evelyn Nyamohanga Gisiri has urged Kenyans planning to take part in Wednesday’s Gen Z-led protests to conduct themselves peacefully and be mindful of the rights of others.

Speaking during a security meeting at Kondele Police Station in Kisumu, Gisiri said the police in the region will provide security for both demonstrators and members of the public going about their daily lives.

“I wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your commitment and consistency in enlightening members of the society on matters affecting their socio-economic development,” she said. “I also want to thank you for your unwavering support to the police in delivering on its mandate. I applaud members of the public in Nyanza for their resilience and commitment to maintaining peace and security in our region, " she referred to the press and police respectively.

She emphasized the importance of safeguarding recent government efforts in improving the region’s infrastructure and economy. “It is important to appreciate the immense effort put in place by both the National and County governments in infrastructural development aimed at boosting the living standards of our people. It is our duty to jealously protect these great achievements."

Commander Gisiri acknowledged that the Gen Z movement has organized a peaceful procession to mark the tragic events of June 2024.

“The National Police Service (NPS) is committed to upholding the rule of law and the constitutional rights of every individual,” she affirmed. “We are fully prepared to guarantee the public of our commitment to protect life and property and to ensure that peace and tranquillity prevail, ".

However, she reminded those participating that sustainable development depends on maintaining a safe and secure environment. “I wish to encourage those who will take part in tomorrow’s demonstration to exercise their constitutional rights with a lot of sobriety and be mindful of the rights of the general public, ".

She stressed on the commitment of the NPS and other security agencies to ensure everyone’s safety: “We remain dedicated to ensuring that all Kenyans are safe, ".

Nationwide, a Gen Z-led protest is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, with coordinated marches, vigils, and digital campaigns planned to honour the memory of those killed during last year’s protests. Many young Kenyans have taken to social media to call for a symbolic 'public holiday' in remembrance of the tragic events of 2024.

However, government officials have taken a cautious stance. Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, speaking on June 23 during one of the radio interviews, downplayed reports of planned mass protests.

“There will be no demonstrations on June 25. Anyone wishing to mark the day is free to do so at home,” Mwaura stated, warning that the government would not permit public demonstrations or any disruptions to public order.

He clarified that while Kenyans are free to commemorate the day in private, any public gatherings would not be authorized. “The day will proceed as any other,” he said firmly.

The opposition, meanwhile, has declared June 25 a symbolic 'public holiday' to mark the first anniversary of the deaths of young Kenyans during last year’s anti-government demonstrations.

Security and government officials are urging restraint, even as Gen Z activists prepare for peaceful action. The Nyanza Regional Police have pledged to ensure security for all whether participating in the demonstrations or continuing with their usual business in hopes that Wednesday will pass peacefully and without incident.