Kenya’s former Ministry of Defence has issued a stern warning after violent protests on June 25, 2025, left a trail of destruction, with looting, vandalism, and attacks on public property.
In a strongly worded statement on X (formerly Twitter) the health CS Aden Duale declared that the demonstrations had “crossed the red line of the Constitution,” accusing protesters of engaging in violence, looting, and anarchy rather than peaceful assembly.
The government now vows to prosecute perpetrators, insisting that “no one can hide behind the right to protest while destroying Kenya.”
A Dark Day for Kenya: Protests Turn Violent
What began as a planned peaceful protest led by Gen Z activists quickly descended into chaos, with reports of looting, vandalism, and attacks on public buildings across major cities.
CS Duale described the events as a “dark day” for Kenya, condemning the destruction of property and violence against civilians.
“Whereas the Constitution guarantees the right to demonstrate, this is no excuse to take away the fundamental rights of others,” he stated.
The protests, initially organized to demand political reforms and economic justice, were hijacked by criminals, according to authorities.
Government’s Hardline Stance: “Red Line Crossed”
Duale’s statement outlined the government’s position in nine key points, emphasizing that the protests violated constitutional limits.
- Destruction Over Peace – The demonstrations were far from peaceful, leaving businesses looted, buildings torched, and civilians attacked.
- Violence Against Women – Some protesters were accused of sexual violence, a claim that has sparked outrage.
- Undermining Democracy – The CS warned that no one can use protests to overthrow a democratically elected government.
- Police Restraint vs. Law Enforcement – While acknowledging that police must exercise restraint, Duale insisted that “the law must take its course” against rioters.
“One cannot hide behind the right to demonstrate while raping our women, looting shops, and destroying property,” he declared.
Constitutional Right vs. Criminal Acts
Article 37 of Kenya’s Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful, unarmed protests. However, the government argues that Wednesday’s events were far from lawful.
“The protests crossed the red line and were nothing of what the Constitution envisages,” Duale said.
Human rights groups, however, have pushed back, accusing police of excessive force and arbitrary arrests.
Amnesty International Kenya tweeted: “While we condemn violence, the state must not use this as an excuse to suppress dissent.”
Crackdown Looms: “Perpetrators Must Face the Law”
The government has vowed a swift crackdown, with security agencies directed to arrest and prosecute those involved in violence.
“Anyone who participated in looting, arson, or attacks must be held accountable,” Duale warned.
Reports indicate that dozens have already been arrested, with more raids expected in coming days.
Political Reactions: Divided Nation
The statement has sparked mixed reactions:
- Government supporters applaud the tough stance, saying “enough is enough.”
- Opposition leaders accuse the state of ignoring genuine grievances that sparked the protests.
- Gen Z activists deny inciting violence, blaming infiltrators for the chaos.
Political analyst Herman Manyora told k47 news: “This is a dangerous escalation. The state must address the root causes of anger rather than just suppressing protests.”
What Next for Kenya?
With tensions still high, Kenya faces a critical moment:
- Will the government dialogue with protesters, or will it double down on arrests?
- Will Gen Z activists return to the streets, or will they adopt new strategies?
- Could this unrest lead to broader political instability?
For now, the message from the government is clear: “The red line was crossed—lawbreakers will pay.”
Conclusion: A Nation on Edge
Kenya’s protest movement has reached a dangerous turning point. While the right to protest remains sacred, the state insists that violence and anarchy will not be tolerated.
As the dust settles, one question lingers: Will Kenya find a peaceful resolution, or is more turmoil ahead?
