The government has dismissed speculation that June 25 could be declared a public holiday, insisting that the day will remain a normal working day despite planned demonstrations to mark the anniversary of last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura made the clarification on Monday as calls for commemorative marches continued to gather momentum across the country.
Speaking during a press briefing, Mwaura said Kenyans remain free to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly, but urged those planning to participate in demonstrations to do so within the law.
“We should have a distinction between peaceful demonstrations and violent actors, ensuring constitutional rights are protected,” Mwaura said.
He added: “Effectively, I wish to clarify that June 25 is not a public holiday and will remain a working day. Citizens are urged to move forward and work that day to build our economy.”
The announcement comes amid growing mobilisation by activists, civil society groups and political leaders ahead of the anniversary of the June 2025 protests, which drew thousands of young Kenyans to the streets in opposition to the Finance Bill.
The demonstrations claimed more than 60 lives, according to KNCHR figures, while other people sustained injuries in the course of the demonstrations.
Furthermore, the country lost economically due to the protests as many businesses shut down as a result of the protests.
According to him, based on estimates by the Kenya Revenue Authority, the demonstrations led to the loss of Ksh6 billion to the economy, but according to the government, the losses could be way more than that figure.
In addition, he warned some of the politicians who use such demonstrations for political purposes about the danger of fanning anger among citizens of Kenya.
This statement is in relation to the ongoing controversy regarding the planning of memorial marches for victims of last year’s demonstrations.
Among those supporting the protests is the Governor of Siaya County James Orengo, who has continually insisted that the anniversary protests aim at seeking justice for the victims and their families.
The government, on its part, has continued to appeal for restraint.
President William Ruto recently warned political leaders not to provoke the public regarding the Finance Bill 2026 as inflammatory words might cause instability in the nation.
Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Interior Kipchumba Murkomen has also called for restraint as the day approaches, appealing to political leaders not to say anything provocative.
At the same time, the police are striving to assure Kenyans that any demonstrations done peacefully will be allowed.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat stated that the security officers would ensure that the protests go on in a peaceful way, provided they do not break the law.
As days approach the anniversaries, all eyes are now looking towards what will happen as the two sides prepare for the day.
