Activist Francis Awino has defended the planned June 25 demonstrations, insisting that Kenyans are exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and are not seeking permission from the government to hold the protests.

Speaking during a press briefing, Awino said organizers had already notified police of the planned demonstrations in accordance with the law and urged security agencies to facilitate peaceful protests rather than frustrate them.

“We are not asking for permission to do what we want to do on June 25. We are only asking the government to follow the Constitution and adhere to Article 37,” he said.

Awino specifically cited Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions peacefully and unarmed.

He also referenced Section 5 of the Public Order Act, arguing that organizers had fulfilled the legal requirement of notifying police about the planned demonstrations.

“We have already notified them and we have done it again today, so there should be no excuses that the police were not informed,” he said.

The activist further called on Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and security agencies to respect constitutional rights and ensure law enforcement officers deployed during the demonstrations act professionally.

Awino also warned against the alleged use of hired goons to disrupt peaceful protests, saying demonstrators were only asking for adequate security and protection from law enforcement officers.

“We want police officers who are sound-minded and who will protect us as we exercise our constitutional rights,” he stated.

Addressing concerns over security, Awino claimed that some organizers and activists had received threats ahead of the demonstrations, saying many participants feared for their safety.

He urged Kenyans who believe the country is headed in the wrong direction to participate peacefully and seek positive change through constitutional means.

Reflecting on the events of June 25, 2024, Awino said the anniversary serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and reforms, adding that citizens should not remain silent when they believe change is necessary.

He maintained that the demonstrations are intended to advocate for the country’s future and called on authorities to guarantee the safety of protesters during the planned protests.