Orengo calls for nationwide shutdown on June 25, says no work or school
By Emmanuel Rono, June 18, 2026Siaya Governor James Orengo has called on Kenyans to stay away from work and school on June 25, 2026, as the country marks the anniversary of the anti-government protests and commemorates those who lost their lives.
According to a statement on his X account on Thursday, June 18, 2026, Orengo urged Kenyans from all walks of life to participate in the commemorations, including a march to Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, where flowers will be laid in honour of those who died during the demonstrations.
“Mark your calendars: June 25th will be observed as a Public Holiday. No work, no school!”
“We invite all Kenyans mothers, fathers, siblings and friends to march to Parliament to demand justice and lay flowers where our children’s lives were cruelly taken,” Orengo said.
Standing with those who died during protests
Orengo made the announcement while standing with the families of Rex Maasai and Erickson, whose deaths became emblematic of the 2025 Gen Z protests.
He announced that vigils and remembrance events would be held simultaneously across all 47 counties.
“We stood with the grieving parents of Rex Maasai and Erickson. Parallel vigils and commemorations will take place across all 47 counties,” Orengo stated.
Notice for the protest
People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua and Siaya Governor James Orengo have stepped up preparations, leading a symbolic procession and issuing a formal notice to Inspector General Douglas Kanja.
The move sets the stage for nationwide commemorations marking a year since the youth-led protests that left an indelible mark on Kenya’s political landscape.
In a statement addressed to the Inspector General, the group said it was seeking clear assurances from the National Police Service that officers would protect lives and property during the peaceful marches expected to take place across the country on June 25.
They emphasized that the commemorations are intended to honor the memory of those who died during the protests and to reaffirm calls for justice, rather than incite violence or disorder.
“We want assurance from the IG of police that he will protect life and property during the peaceful marches taking place across Kenya on June 25, 2026,” the statement said.