Kenyans are expected to take part in the JusticeForTheFallen memorial processions on June 25, 2026, to honour those who lost their lives during the June 2024 protests and renew calls for accountability./File
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Police Reforms Working Group (PRWG) have called on the National Police Service (NPS) to uphold constitutional rights and guarantee the safety of Kenyans taking part in the planned #JusticeForTheFallen memorial processions on June 25, 2026.
In a joint public safety advisory issued on Wednesday, the two organisations described the nationwide processions as peaceful acts of remembrance for those who lost their lives during the June 2024 anti-government protests.
They noted that the gatherings are protected under the Constitution, which guarantees the rights to peaceful assembly, demonstration, picketing and petitioning.
“The National Police Service is reminded that its primary role is to facilitate and protect the exercise of this right,” the statement said.
“Protest notifications are intended to enable coordination for public safety, not to seek permission.”
The groups cautioned against a repeat of past incidents involving excessive use of force, unlawful arrests, attacks on journalists and obstruction of medical assistance during demonstrations.
According to the advisory, such violations have contributed to the deaths of more than 138 people and left over 1,200 others injured in recent years.
LSK and PRWG urged police commanders to ensure all officers deployed during the processions are clearly identifiable and operate within the confines of the law.
They added that any use of force must be lawful, necessary, proportionate and employed only as a last resort.
“The use of live ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, or water cannons against peaceful participants is strictly prohibited,” the advisory noted, while urging authorities to prioritise dialogue and de-escalation.
The organisations also emphasised the need to protect journalists, medical personnel, first responders and human rights observers.
They called for unrestricted media coverage and warned against interference with internet access or live broadcasts.
In a separate statement posted on X, Amnesty Kenya said the memorial processions would be a key test of the country's commitment to justice and human rights.
“Tomorrow’s #JusticeForTheFallen Processions are a test of our nation’s commitment to human rights, accountability, and the rule of law,” Amnesty Kenya stated.
The organisation added: “We call on the National Police Service to facilitate peaceful assemblies, protect every life, exercise restraint, and ensure that no family suffers another loss while seeking justice for those already taken from us.”
As Kenyans prepare to commemorate those who died during the 2024 protests, rights groups have urged all parties to maintain peace, respect constitutional freedoms and ensure that the memorial events proceed without further loss of life.
