A section of youths has renewed criticism over the policing of demonstrations in the country, accusing security officers of violating constitutional rights during public protests, including Gen Z anniversary demonstrations.

Speaking in an interview with a local station on Friday, June 19, 2026, LYK Secretary General Austine Ogalo said police responses to protests often undermine peaceful demonstrators, who he said are typically unarmed and expressing themselves lawfully.

“The problem we have with demonstrations in this country is the police. Most of the time, we are just armed with a flag, mask, and a bottle of water, yet the police infringe on our rights,” he said.

Why do protests become chaotic?

He said the situation often becomes chaotic when police intervene during otherwise peaceful protests.

“So you see, when you go out there to express your feelings and then the police come and infringe on your rights, then it becomes a little bit messy,” he said.

Ogalo further alleged that some demonstrations are disrupted by individuals who are not genuine protesters.

“Also infiltration of these protests by goons, and these goons, most of them are being sent by these politicians,” he added.

He called on leaders to address underlying youth frustrations instead of interfering with protests.

“Right now we are just trying to urge them that instead of spending money to bring goons to our protests, maybe channel that money to develop projects for the youth, give them initiatives, and give them employment,” Ogalo said.

Total shutdown on June 25

Siaya 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.