IG Kanja Warns June 25 Protesters Against Marching To State House
This comes amidst reports of protesters planning to march to State House on June 25.
Marvin Chege 
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has warned protesters to avoid restricted zones during the upcoming demonstrations on Wednesday, June 24, which are meant to pay tribute to those who died in last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, June 24, Kanja urged Kenyans to respect restricted and protected areas, saying unauthorised access will not be tolerated.
This comes amidst reports of protesters planning to march to State House on June 25. Earlier today, a video seen by Viral Tea showed police mounting roadblocks on the entry and exit points around the highest office in the land.
Roadblocks mounted around State House, Nairobi as of June 24, 2025. /SADDIQUE SHABAN
“Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful and riotous assembly. The National Police Service shall at all times lawfully and firmly prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups of persons, acting contrary to the provisions of the law.
"Additionally, it is important to note that unauthorised persons must refrain from accessing protected areas under the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204, Laws of Kenya),” he stated in part.
He appealed to Kenyans not to provoke police officers as they carry out their responsibilities. IG Kanja emphasised that Article 37 of the Constitution grants every individual the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities—provided it's done peacefully and without weapons.
The Inspector General urged protesters to work closely with the police, warning that any behaviour outside those bounds would be considered an unlawful and riotous gathering.
He also commended police officers for their patriotism and commitment, acknowledging the risks they take daily to safeguard the nation and assured the police officers of the service's unwavering support as they execute their mandate.
“These are the unsung sons and daughters of Kenya, who work hand in hand with other agencies for the common good of the country,” he said, adding, “In all that we do, let us remember one sacred truth: Kenya is our homeland; let us protect it. We only have this country.”
Earlier today, President William Ruto commended the police for protecting Kenyans, property, and the nation as a whole, saying, “Without peace and security, we do not have a nation. The people who put their lives on the line to make sure that our families, properties, and nation are safe and stable are our security agencies."
Vowing to protect them, Ruto condemned acts to undermine, intimidate, and demean the security forces, adding that the authorities deserved all the support they could get from the nation.
His statement and that of IG Kanja all come just a day ahead of planned protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) and other regions across the country, aimed at honouring Gen Zs who died during last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
