Serve and protect! Crystal Asige urges police restraint

Security deployment across Nairobi on June 25 reignited debate over public safety, freedom of movement and the government's approach to activities commemorating the anniversary of the 2024 Gen-Z protests.

Major roads in the capital were lined with police officers, anti-riot units, armoured personnel carriers and security vehicles as authorities sought to maintain order amid concerns over possible demonstrations and public gatherings.

The heavy presence of security personnel drew criticism from leaders and activists, who called on law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint while carrying out their duties.

Nominated Senator Crystal Asige urged security officers to remain professional and avoid actions that could heighten tensions, arguing that ordinary citizens posed no threat to law enforcement.

“Wananchi will not shoot or teargas each other. They do not have guns and rungus. And so, I plead with the authorities: please exercise restraint. Serve and protect. Today is a delicate day,” Asige said in a statement.

The senator also questioned what she described as a contradiction between official assurances that the day would proceed normally and the reality witnessed on the ground.

“A morning drive across town and this is what the streets look like. The public have been told that today is a normal working day, that kids should go to school, that businesses should open, and that transport will run,” she said.

According to Asige, the extensive deployment of officers and security vehicles created an atmosphere that appeared inconsistent with government messaging.

“And yet every street is littered with riot police, APC vehicles, armed personnel, and no public transport in sight,” she added.

She further questioned the rationale behind encouraging Kenyans to go about their normal activities amid the visible security operation.

“Why encourage Kenyans to leave their homes and ‘act normal’ when there’s intimidation on every street corner?” she asked.

The June 25 anniversary has become a significant date for many Kenyans following the nationwide Gen-Z-led protests of 2024, when thousands of young people took to the streets to oppose government policies and demand greater accountability.

As commemorative activities continued, public discourse centred on calls for peaceful conduct, dialogue and respect for constitutional rights, with leaders urging both demonstrators and security agencies to avoid actions that could escalate tensions.