Avoid Protected Areas, Police IG Kanja Warns Ahead of State House Protests

Police chief issues stern warning as Kenya prepares for Wednesday memorial demonstrations marking anniversary of deadly Finance Bill protests

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a stern warning to protesters planning to participate in Wednesday’s memorial demonstrations, cautioning them to stay away from protected areas including State House as the nation marks the first anniversary of the deadly anti-Finance Bill protests.

In a brief but pointed press conference lasting less than ten minutes on Monday, IG Kanja emphasized that police officers will act within the confines of the law to protect lives and property, while urging demonstrators to operate within legal boundaries.

“Police officers shall act within the confines of the law to protect lives and property,” Kanja stated, flanked by senior security officials including DCI Amin Mohamed, GSU commandant Ranson Lolmodoni, and Nairobi county commander George Seda.

Protected Areas Off-Limits

The warning comes as organizers have announced countrywide marches in all 47 counties starting at 10:00am on Wednesday, June 25, in addition to vigils and gatherings in the Nairobi Central Business District, marking exactly one year since protesters stormed Parliament buildings in demonstrations that resulted in at least 22 deaths and numerous injuries.

State House, along with several other key locations in Kenya, is classified as a protected area under the Kenya Protected Areas Act, with unauthorized entry carrying significant legal penalties.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has also strongly warned protesters against storming the State House or Parliament on Wednesday, June 25, reinforcing the government’s position on protecting designated security zones.

Security Preparations Underway

Nairobi police commander George Seda had earlier reassured the public that security organs were prepared to enhance safety during the Wednesday protests, stating on June 18: “We have the plan and we shall be there to provide enough and good security to ensure every person who is going to participate and those not going to participate will be safe.”

Commander Seda confirmed that police had received official communication about the planned protests as required by law, but appealed for peaceful demonstrations that would not interfere with normal business operations.

“Let’s restrict ourselves to what we call peaceful demonstrations. Let’s not have demonstrations which are going to interfere with other people who may not be part of the demonstrators,” Seda said.

“Remember, it will be a working day and we shall be having people operating hotels, shops and other businesses.”

Memorial vs. Demonstration Controversy

The Wednesday events have sparked debate over their nature and legality.

While protesters frame them as memorial activities to honor those killed during last year’s demonstrations, government officials have taken a different stance.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura declared: “There will be no demonstrations on June 25. Anyone who wishes to mark the day is free to do so — at home,” suggesting the government does not recognize the events as legitimate protests.

However, many hope for peaceful demonstrations in honor of those who lost their lives in last year’s historic movement, with organizers calling for a peaceful ‘flower and flag’ march in major cities including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret.

Recent Tensions and Violence

The memorial protests come amid heightened tensions following recent incidents of police violence.

A Kenyan police officer was arrested over the shooting of an unarmed civilian during protests in Nairobi touched off by the death of a blogger in police custody, highlighting ongoing concerns about police conduct during demonstrations.

Last week’s protest against police killings turned violent after attacks by men with whips and batons, raising fears about potential state infiltration of peaceful demonstrations.

IG Kanja’s warning reflects the strict legal framework governing protected areas in Kenya.

The Protected Areas Act Cap 204 prohibits unauthorized entry into designated zones, with violations carrying significant penalties including potential imprisonment.

The law covers various installations including government buildings, airports, military facilities, and critical infrastructure, all deemed essential to national security.

International Attention

The planned demonstrations have drawn international attention, with the U.S. Embassy issuing a demonstration alert for American citizens, noting that demonstrations may take place throughout next week with little advance notice.

This reflects broader international concern about Kenya’s handling of protests and human rights issues, particularly following last year’s deadly confrontations.

As Kenya approaches the anniversary of one of its most significant protest movements in recent history, the tension between memorial rights and security concerns remains palpable. L

IG Kanja’s warning underscores the government’s determination to prevent any repeat of last year’s violent scenes, while protesters maintain their right to peaceful assembly and remembrance.

The events of Wednesday, June 25, will likely serve as a critical test of Kenya’s commitment to both security and democratic rights as the nation grapples with the legacy of the Finance Bill protests and ongoing calls for accountability and reform.

The Finance Bill protests of 2024 marked a watershed moment in Kenyan politics, with largely young demonstrators successfully pressuring the government to withdraw controversial tax legislation, though at a significant human cost.