NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 24 – The government has dismissed reports suggesting Thursday’s Gen Z protest anniversary will be observed as a public holiday, urging Kenyans to continue with normal activities as security agencies prepare for planned demonstrations.

Addressing the press on Tuesday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the country could not sustain further economic losses caused by repeated disruptions linked to protests and unrest.

According to Mwaura, recent demonstrations had negatively affected businesses, transport services and investor confidence, with billions of shillings lost across various sectors of the economy.

“We urge Kenyans to go on with their daily activities. The country is still recovering from the economic impact caused by previous protests,” he said.

The spokesperson acknowledged that peaceful demonstrations are protected under the Constitution but warned against violence, looting and destruction of property witnessed during some recent protests.

Mwaura said authorities were particularly concerned about criminal groups allegedly infiltrating demonstrations and taking advantage of the situation to cause chaos.

He maintained that while police officers are expected to uphold professionalism and respect human rights, demonstrators must also exercise their rights responsibly and within the law.

“The Constitution guarantees the right to protest, but it also protects the rights of other citizens to conduct business, travel and live peacefully without intimidation or destruction,” he stated.

Mwaura warned that once demonstrations turn violent, security agencies are legally mandated to intervene to restore order and protect lives and property.

He also appealed for calm ahead of the anniversary commemorations, urging Kenyans to honour victims of previous protests peacefully and avoid actions that could heighten tensions.

The government spokesperson further criticised political leaders accused of exploiting public demonstrations for political mileage, cautioning that inflammatory statements risk deepening divisions in the country.

“Leaders should promote peace and responsibility instead of encouraging confrontation and instability,” he said.

Mwaura added that security agencies had heightened surveillance in several areas to prevent violence, vandalism and politically motivated attacks during the planned protests.

He warned that individuals found engaging in criminal acts would face legal consequences regardless of their political affiliations.

On accountability and justice for victims of past demonstrations, Mwaura said the government was preparing to roll out compensation for victims of human rights violations under the Uwiano programme.

The spokesperson also condemned increasing incidents of political intolerance and violence in different parts of the country, describing them as a threat to democratic freedoms and national cohesion.

He said security agencies had been instructed to intensify operations in identified hotspots to safeguard peace and ensure public safety during the protest anniversary.