CS Kipchumba Murkomen.
By IP Reporter
NAIROBI, Kenya (June 24, 2025) – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Tuesday warned protesters to steer clear of protected government zones, saying unlawful demonstrations in restricted areas could result in arrests—or fatalities.
Murkomen said while the Constitution protects peaceful protest, the right does not apply to high-security areas such as State House, Parliament, or airports. He cautioned that any attempt to storm such places would be treated as a serious security threat.
“In other countries, you can’t threaten to storm key institutions and walk away free. Only in Kenya do people brag online about invading Parliament or the Judiciary and expect no consequences,” he said.
He warned that security agencies are on high alert following intelligence reports of groups arming youth with crude weapons and targeting sensitive government installations.
Murkomen also raised concern over growing legal ignorance among Gen Z protesters. He said many appear unaware of the laws that govern public assemblies and the severe consequences of entering protected areas.
“Marching into protected areas isn’t a show of defiance—it’s a criminal offense. If met with force, it can turn tragic,” he said.
Kenyan law designates certain zones as off-limits. The Protected Areas Act and Aviation laws provide for arrest, prosecution, and removal of trespassers. Security personnel are legally empowered to use proportionate force when dealing with threats in these spaces.
Murkomen urged demonstrators to remain within legal limits by using public spaces and filing notices under the Public Order Act.
“Protest safely. Protest lawfully. But don’t put your life at risk by testing the limits of the law,” he said.
Ends.
