NAIROBI – Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has defended the government’s response to the June 25 protests, telling foreign diplomats that while the right to demonstrate is protected by the Constitution, public disorder cannot be condoned.
In a briefing to members of the diplomatic community, Mudavadi said the commemorative demonstrations, held in remembrance of the 2024 anti-finance bill victims, quickly turned violent. According to the Prime CS, the protests were hijacked by groups that engaged in violence, attacked civilians, and vandalized property.
“To condone such violence as legitimate protests is certainly not in the spirit of Kenyans’ national interest,” Mudavadi said.
He stated that key public infrastructure, businesses, and security installations came under attack during the unrest. He argued that this conduct crossed the line from protest into criminal behavior.
Mudavadi emphasized that constitutional freedoms, including the right to assemble and express views, come with legal boundaries. “Article 33 protects freedom of expression, but it does not extend to incitement to violence, hate speech, or ethnic vilification,” he said.
He raised concern over the unclear nature of the protest’s organization. “Who were the organizers of the intended peaceful demonstrations? Did they discharge their responsibilities as envisaged under the law?” he asked.
The Prime CS accused unnamed individuals of exploiting the protests to advance personal or political interests, distorting the original cause. “It is evident that, at a certain point, the demonstrations were co-opted by elements pursuing ulterior, self-serving agendas,” he said.
He acknowledged international concern about the right to peaceful assembly but dismissed violence as a valid form of protest. “Violence has no place in our society. When individuals attack law enforcement or destroy private property, is that a form of protest?” Mudavadi asked. “These questions demand honest reflection.”
He praised the police for what he described as restraint under pressure. “Their professionalism helped prevent further escalation and protected national order,” he noted.
Mudavadi warned that unchecked disorder could threaten Kenya’s constitutional institutions. “The biggest threat to a nation’s security arises when critical institutions collapse. Respecting legal processes is non-negotiable to prevent instability,” he concluded.
His remarks follow widespread public debate and international concern over the force used during the protests, which marked the anniversary of a deadly government crackdown in 2024. The government maintains the police acted lawfully, while rights groups have called for independent investigations.
