The police pledged to safeguard lives and property on Thursday, June 25, when the memorial was scheduled, warning that any disruption would be met with strict action.
Speaking in Mombasa on Saturday, June 20, Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat confirmed that adequate security arrangements had been made for the protest intended to honor the 2024 and 2025 anti‑government demonstrations.
While assuring peaceful protestors of safety, Lagat cautioned against any violent conduct and emphasized that disorder would be handled decisively.
“There will be no problems next week. Kenyans will carry on with their duties as usual, free from fear. Peace will prevail, and anyone found causing violence will be arrested,” he declared.
The DIG urged young people not to be manipulated by politicians into inciting violence or damaging Kenyan property during the planned demonstrations, a trend seen recently.
“I want to use this forum to urge the youth not to find time next week in any part of the country,” he added.
He also warned criminal gangs of making the most of the demonstrations, stating that security forces have stepped up operations nationwide to root them out.
The warning comes amid increased use of youths by political actors to spark violence and destroy opponents’ propertya danger the police say threatens security ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Human rights activists and opposition groups have urged Kenyans to participate in large numbers.
In contrast, government allies and the Orange Democratic Movement have asked their supporters to stay home on Thursday and not join the planned protests, arguing it is unnecessary.
While addressing Asumbi in Homabay County on Saturday, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga criticised those who championed the protests for a selfish agenda.
“We have done this work for others for too many years; this time round let them also do it on our behalf,” Wanga said.