Police warn Gen Z protesters against State House march, cite Protected Areas Act

Anti-police brutality protesters have been cautioned against attempting to access restricted government sites, including the State House, during demonstrations planned for Wednesday, June 25, with police citing the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204, Laws of Kenya).

In a statement on Tuesday, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja cautioned that any attempt to breach the security of such zones would be met with lawful and firm resistance, warning that the law clearly prohibits entry into protected government sites without proper authorisation.

This comes as Gen Z protesters have vowed to march towards the State House as part of their symbolic route to mark the anniversary of last year’s youth-led demonstrations.

Demands for justice and accountability

Organisers say the protest will highlight ongoing demands for justice and accountability over alleged police excesses, which they claim remain unresolved.

“Unauthorised persons must refrain from accessing protected areas, under the Protected Areas Act,” Kanja said.

According to the Act, “Any person who is in a protected area without permission, contrary to the provisions of section 3, or who fails to comply with any order issued under that section, or who fails to comply with any direction given to him under section 4, or who refuses to allow himself to be searched under section 5, shall be guilty of an offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or to a fine not exceeding five thousand shillings, or to both such imprisonment and fine.”

Kanja reaffirmed the constitutional mandate of the police to ensure public safety, protect life and property, and uphold law and order.

The IG said the National Police Service (NPS) remains apolitical and operates independently under Article 243 of the Constitution.

Right to peacefully assemble

He reiterated that while Article 37 of the Constitution guarantees the right to peacefully assemble and demonstrate, this right must be exercised per the law, including the Public Order Act and the Penal Code, which define and prohibit unlawful or riotous gatherings.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Article 37 of the Constitution and also the Penal Code CAP 63, Sections 78 and 82, clearly provide the conditions necessary for a lawful assembly. Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful and riotous assembly,” he said.

Cooperate with police

Kanja added that the NPS will not tolerate any breach of peace and will take lawful action against groups acting in violation of the law. He urged protesters to cooperate with police and to refrain from provocative acts directed at officers.

“The public is also urged to refrain from provocative acts, directed to police officers in execution of their duties,” he said, while urging continued vigilance and reporting of any suspicious activity.

Other Topics To Read

• Headlines
• National
• National Police Service
• State House
• Police Brutality
• NPS
• gen z protests
• june 25 protests
• Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja
• Protected Areas Act
• #FichuakwaDCI
• Police warn Gen Z protesters against State House march
• cite Protected Areas Act

On police conduct, the IG acknowledged public concerns but assured that accountability mechanisms are in place.

He said misconduct is taken seriously and addressed through multiple oversight bodies, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the National Police Service Commission, Parliament, and the Internal Affairs Unit.

“As a result of this robust accountability mechanism, every instance of police misconduct is dealt with firmly, swiftly, and transparently. Despite some unfortunate and isolated incidents, for which the Service regrets, our focus remains on being a professional, efficient, and responsive police service,” Kanja said.

Patriotism and dedication

He commended police officers for their patriotism and dedication, saying they continue to serve the country with courage.

“These are the unsung sons and daughters of Kenya, who work hand in hand with other agencies, for the common good of the country. We assure our officers of our unwavering support, as they execute their mandate, as guided by the Constitution,” he said.

Kanja urged the public to support police efforts in upholding peace and security.

“We assure the public that we will continue pursuing and dismantling criminal networks, to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans, residents, and visitors,” he said, adding that the NPS can be reached through hotlines 999, 911, 112, 0800 722 203 or #FichuakwaDCI.

“Let us stand together as one people, united by our love for this great nation. Kenya is our homeland, let us protect it,” Kanja said.