Willis Otieno: Threatening Gen Z protesters is an attack on democracy itself
By Sharon Atieno, June 23, 2026Lawyer Willis Evans Otieno has criticised threats directed at young Kenyans planning to participate in the June 25 demonstrations, warning that intimidating peaceful protesters amounts to undermining democracy and constitutional freedoms guaranteed to citizens.
Speaking in his X account on Tuesday, June 23,2026, Otieno said leaders entrusted with power must safeguard the Constitution instead of using State authority to silence dissent, especially at a time when many young Kenyans are demanding accountability from those in government.
Defending constitutional freedoms
The constitutional lawyer maintained that the presidency carries the responsibility of protecting democratic rights and should never be used to intimidate citizens exercising freedoms protected under the law.
“A President’s duty is to defend the Constitution, not wage war against it,” Otieno stated.
He argued that peaceful protests remain a legitimate democratic tool and warned against attempts to criminalise civic participation among the youth.
Civic consciousness is not a crime
Otieno said demands for accountability should not be interpreted as hostility against the State, insisting democracy thrives when citizens freely express themselves without fear.
“Threatening peaceful Gen Z protesters for exercising their constitutional rights is an attack on democracy itself. Civic consciousness is not a crime. Dissent is not treason. Demanding accountability is not a threat to the nation,” he said.
He further insisted that Kenya’s democratic gains must be protected at all costs.
Safina Party backs protesters
According to Otieno, Safina Party will continue defending freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and the right of citizens to be heard.
“Safina Party will not stand by as hard-won freedoms are trampled upon. We stand firmly with the people, the Constitution, and the right of every Kenyan to speak, assemble, and be heard,” he added.
His remarks come amid rising tension after Deputy President Kithure Kindiki warned that the government would firmly deal with any violence during the June 25 protests. Speaking in Uasin Gishu on Sunday, Kindiki said security agencies would protect businesses and citizens, stressing that while peaceful protests are allowed, destruction of property would not be tolerated.
“So on Thursday there will be no monkey business anywhere in the Republic of Kenya,” Kindiki said as debate intensifies ahead of the planned nationwide demonstrations.