Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has defended the government's handling of the June 25 protests, pushing back against international criticism and accusing some foreign envoys of overstepping their diplomatic roles and misrepresenting the events.

In a closed-door briefing with diplomatic missions and international organisations in Nairobi, Mudavadi expressed sorrow over the deaths and injuries reported during the protests but insisted that the actions taken by security agencies were justified, necessary, and carried out with professionalism.

“The government of Kenya deeply regrets the loss of life and the injuries sustained by both members of the public and law enforcement officers during the recent events. We extend our sincere condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives and express our heartfelt sympathy to all those injured,” he said.

He commended security officers for maintaining order amid what he termed extreme provocation. “Their actions prevented further escalation, and we appreciate their dedication to maintaining law and order under challenging circumstances,” he said.

According to Mudavadi, what began as a memorial for victims of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests was quickly taken over by violence, leading to looting, destruction of public infrastructure, and attacks on law enforcement.

“Many citizens lost their businesses due to looting, with stock painstakingly acquired through savings or loans destroyed. The vast majority of those affected were medium and small enterprises and citizens of modest means,” he said.

He questioned how such losses would be compensated and argued that calling such actions legitimate protests does not serve the national interest. “Who will compensate them? Who will replace their lost income? To condone such violence as legitimate protests is certainly not in the spirit of Kenyans’ national interest,” he stated.

He further reminded diplomats that constitutional rights under Articles 19, 20, 33, 34, and 37 must be exercised within legal boundaries. “Article 37 guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate, and picket, but this is limited to peaceful and unarmed actions.

Organisers bear the responsibility to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful,” he said, while questioning whether those behind the protests fulfilled this responsibility.

Mudavadi also raised concern over the targeting of government installations during the protests. “When individuals attack armouries, police stations, or administrative offices, were these acts of a peaceful protest? What were the objectives of such attacks?” he posed.

Addressing criticism over the suspension of live broadcasts during the protests, he said the directive by the Communications Authority of Kenya was a lawful and measured response to potential incitement.

“This action was proportionate and justifiable, aimed at preventing further incitement while balancing media interests with public safety. The High Court later ordered the restoration of broadcasting signals, reflecting judicial oversight,” he said.

He warned that elements behind the violence used the protests for personal or political gain.

“It is regrettable that these events were marred by incidents of violence, some of which targeted members of the public, including women and small business owners,” he said.

Mudavadi described the destruction of infrastructure and theft of public property, including subsidised fertiliser, as economic sabotage.

“Violence has no place in our society, and we cannot hide behind the excuse of protesting to justify unlawful acts,” he said. “When individuals attack law enforcement facilities or destroy private property, is that a form of protest? What was the objective of such actions? These questions demand honest reflection.”

While thanking international partners for continued cooperation, he urged them to respect Kenya’s constitutional institutions and legal systems. “The biggest threat to a nation’s security arises when critical institutions collapse. Respecting constitutional institutions and adhering to legal processes are non-negotiable to prevent instability,” he said.