Speaking during the funeral of Zipporah Kosgey, wife of former Tinderet MP Henry Kosgey, in Kipkoror Village, Nandi Hills Constituency, Murkomen said security agencies would not tolerate criminal activities disguised as peaceful protests.

The CS accused some politicians of attempting to exploit the planned demonstrations for political gain after failing to rally opposition against the Finance Bill.

“Some politicians who failed to find fault with this year’s Finance Bill, just want to cause chaos next week. These people are misusing other people’s children, yet neither they nor their children turn up in those demonstrations. They pay others to do it for them,” Murkomen said.

His remarks come amid growing anticipation over planned protests by youth groups commemorating last year’s nationwide anti-government demonstrations that were largely driven by Gen Z activists.

While acknowledging the constitutional right to assemble and demonstrate, Murkomen cautioned that the freedom does not extend to criminal conduct.

“The Constitution under Article 37 guarantees every Kenyan the right to protest and assemble peacefully, but that right does not cover criminal activities,” he said.

He warned that law enforcement officers would firmly deal with anyone found engaging in violence, destruction of public property or attacks on innocent citizens.

“Those who will burn police stations, loot, destroy government property and attack law-abiding citizens will be met with the full force of the law,” Murkomen stated.

The Interior CS further dismissed any notion that the government’s ongoing compensation programme for victims affected during previous protests should be interpreted as tolerance for lawlessness.

According to Murkomen, compensation efforts are aimed at addressing losses suffered by victims and should not be viewed as an opportunity for criminal elements to repeat acts of vandalism and looting.

He maintained that security agencies have been placed on high alert ahead of the planned demonstrations and reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property while safeguarding constitutional freedoms.

The CS urged young people to avoid being manipulated into participating in violent activities and instead exercise their rights within the confines of the law.

His comments are expected to fuel debate over the planned anniversary protests, which organizers say are intended to honour those who lost their lives and demand greater accountability from the government.

As the country prepares for the demonstrations, authorities have reiterated that peaceful protesters will be protected, but warned that anyone found engaging in criminal acts will face legal consequences.

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