Rights Groups Issue Seven-Point Advisory Ahead of Gen Z Protest Anniversary

Human rights organisations have issued a seven-point advisory to the National Police Service (NPS) ahead of nationwide memorial processions planned for 25 June, while government officials have pledged to protect peaceful demonstrators and take action against violence.

The commemorations mark one year since the Gen Z-led protests of 2024, which ended in fatalities and became a defining moment in calls for greater accountability and reform. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Police Reforms Working Group released the advisory on Wednesday, reminding police that their duty is to protect and facilitate peaceful assembly under Article 37 of the Constitution. 

The organisations stressed that notifications of demonstrations are not requests for permission but mechanisms for coordination and public safety. The guidelines call for the safety of protesters to be guaranteed and for police commanders to be held accountable for their actions. 

They also require the lawful and proportionate use of force, protection of journalists, safe access for medical personnel and observers, adherence to lawful arrest procedures, and the immediate reporting of casualties to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority. The advisory reflects concerns arising from previous demonstrations, during which reports documented excessive force, arbitrary arrests and attacks on journalists. 

The organisations stated that public order and human rights must be upheld together and called for a different approach to policing public demonstrations. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also urged restraint, saying police would provide security for peaceful protesters. 

Speaking at a Peace and Security Meeting in Kajiado County, he said officers were prepared to ensure demonstrations could proceed peacefully. At the same time, Murkomen warned that individuals involved in violence would face firm action. 

He also directed that schools, businesses and public services continue operating normally, signalling the government's intention to minimise disruption. Despite those assurances, tensions remain. Authorities have declared the planned demonstrations in Nairobi's Central Business District illegal, citing a lack of formal notifications. 

Nairobi Regional Commander Issa Mohamud said gatherings would be dispersed, a position that appears at odds with Murkomen's commitment to protect peaceful protesters. Meanwhile, activist Bob Njagi has been arrested in Kajiado on suspicion of incitement. 

In Kisumu, counter-demonstrations have taken place, with some residents expressing opposition to the Gen Z memorial marches. President William Ruto has acknowledged the right to protest but warned against violence and destruction of property, urging young people to act responsibly.

The anniversary recalls the storming of Parliament in 2024 and the deaths that followed, events that mobilised many young Kenyans to demand accountability and political reform.