Kirinyaga residents urged to maintain peace ahead of June 25 demos
By Bancy Lole, June 24, 2026Kirinyaga County Commissioner Shufaa Omar Mwijuma has called on residents to uphold peace and order ahead of demonstrations planned for Thursday, June 25, 2026.
Speaking on Wednesday, June 24, Mwijuma said security agencies had put in place measures to maintain law and order during the demonstrations, particularly in Mwea town and other trading centres across the county.
She said the Constitution guarantees citizens the right to demonstrate and express their views, but warned that the right must be exercised within the confines of the law.
“The right to demonstrate is protected by the Constitution, but it must be exercised within the law. Anyone who engages in violence or criminal activities will face the full force of the law,” she said.
Mwijuma urged residents to cooperate with security officers and ensure that businesses, transport services and other essential activities continue without disruption.
The appeal comes ahead of the planned nationwide demonstrations on Thursday, June 25, 2026, with several institutions, civil society organisations and human rights groups calling for peaceful conduct during the protests.
In separate statements, stakeholders have urged both demonstrators and security agencies to uphold the rule of law, exercise restraint and safeguard lives and property. They have emphasised that while the right to peaceful assembly is guaranteed under the Constitution, all parties must ensure the demonstrations remain orderly and free from violence.
Security agencies on alert
The County Commissioner said security personnel will remain on high alert throughout the demonstrations to safeguard lives and property.
She cautioned residents against engaging in acts of violence, vandalism or any activity that could compromise public safety.
Mwijuma noted that law enforcement officers have a constitutional mandate to protect citizens and maintain order, adding that action will be taken against individuals found breaking the law during the demonstrations.
She further called on residents to conduct themselves peacefully and avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
Business community calls for calm
Mwea Business Community Chairperson Antony Mucheke Waweru also appealed for restraint, especially among young people expected to participate in the demonstrations.
He urged them to avoid actions that could lead to destruction of property or disruption of business activities within the town.
As part of precautionary measures, Waweru announced that entertainment clubs in Mwea would remain closed from midnight on Wednesday.
He said the decision was informed by experiences from previous demonstrations where some individuals allegedly used entertainment joints as hideouts after engaging in criminal activities.
“As business people, we shall remain vigilant and protect our premises until midday, after which we shall assess the situation. Our priority is ensuring that businesses and investments remain safe,” he said.
Measures to protect businesses
The business community has mobilised traders to safeguard commercial premises, including shops, stalls and other investments.
Waweru called on security agencies to enhance patrols around business centres and respond swiftly to any incidents that may arise during the demonstrations.
He also encouraged traders to work together in protecting their businesses and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The planned demonstrations are expected to take place across the country as citizens commemorate the events of June 2024.
Security agencies in Kirinyaga said they will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with stakeholders to ensure public safety throughout the day.