Babu Owino: I will offer free legal aid for arrested Gen Z protesters

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has pledged to provide legal representation to any Gen Z protesters who may be arrested during demonstrations planned for today to mark the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-government protests.

In a video statement shared ahead of the commemorative demonstrations, the legislator said he had assembled a team of advocates to support protesters who could find themselves in conflict with law enforcement agencies during the day’s events.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I'm Babu Owino, Member of Parliament, Embakasi East Republic, and the incoming Governor, 2027 Nairobi County,” he said.

“This week, I know some, if not most, of Gen Zs may be arrested by the rogue regime. I know, as usual, police officers will target our brothers and sisters for arrest.”

The MP sought to assure protesters that legal assistance would be available if arrests were made during the demonstrations.

“In case anybody is arrested, nobody should worry. I will be there for you,” he said.

“As Babu Owino, together with other advocates, we have put up a team of advocates, competent ones, who will ensure that you are free.”

His remarks came hours before thousands of Kenyans were expected to participate in nationwide demonstrations and memorial processions commemorating the events of June 25, 2024, when protesters stormed Parliament during opposition to the Finance Bill.

The anniversary protests have largely been organised by Gen Z activists and civil society groups who say the demonstrations are intended to honour those who died, were injured or disappeared during last year's protests, while also renewing calls for accountability.

Ahead of the demonstrations, the government maintained that it respects the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said that police had received notifications from citizens intending to hold demonstrations and were prepared to provide security and guide protesters.

“Tomorrow is a normal working and school day. However, the police are in receipt of a notification by some citizens who would like to engage in public demonstrations,” Murkomen said.

“Police are therefore ready to provide security and guide the protesters tomorrow according to their request.”

At the same time, the Law Society of Kenya and the Police Reforms Working Group issued a seven-point advisory urging police officers to facilitate peaceful demonstrations, avoid excessive force and protect journalists, medics and human rights observers.

The groups reminded law enforcement officers that the planned processions fall under rights protected by Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees the freedom to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions peacefully and unarmed.

Meanwhile, Kenyatta National Hospital directed consultants and senior house officers to remain on standby to respond to any emergencies that may arise during the demonstrations, citing the need for preparedness and uninterrupted emergency services.

The commemorations are expected to take place in Nairobi and other towns across the country as Kenyans mark one year since the June 2024 protests that reshaped the country's political landscape.