Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged Kenyans to uphold peace during the planned Saba Saba demonstrations, cautioning that recent protests have strayed from lawful expression and turned violent.

Speaking in Meru on Sunday, July 6, Murkomen acknowledged that the Constitution allows public demonstrations but expressed concern that some recent gatherings have resulted in destruction and lawlessness.

“There’s a growing trend where people announce protests under Article 37, claiming it's their constitutional right to picket and demonstrate. That’s true the law allows it. But I’m deeply concerned that modern-day protests have abandoned peace entirely. These are not peaceful demonstrations. Instead, we’ve seen the burning of courts, police stations, and administrative offices. What kind of protest is that?” he questioned.

The CS criticised those he said were hiding behind constitutional rights to incite unrest for political gain, warning that such actions not only threaten peace but erode national progress.

“I hear many people complaining that the police haven’t done this or that, but those who use violence for political mileage are the ones dragging our nation backwards,” he said.

Murkomen defended the role of the police, saying they are often forced into difficult situations while dealing with politically charged protests.

“Our officers are not involved in politics. But they're being pushed into difficult positions trying to stop individuals who use unrest to gain political ground. I urge Kenyans to reject leaders who promote violence. Let’s return to a culture of peaceful political engagement,” he said.

He emphasized that while protests are lawful, they must remain peaceful. Destruction of businesses, looting, and damage to public institutions would not be tolerated under any circumstance.

“We will do everything within our mandate to ensure that the country remains peaceful. Every Kenyan has the right to protest, but those demonstrations must be peaceful. If someone burns down their neighbour’s shop or loots property in the name of a protest, it becomes our responsibility to intervene and stop that,” he said.

Murkomen wrapped up his address by underscoring the need for national unity and calm, saying that peace is the foundation of Kenya’s stability and future development.