Orengo defends June 25 protests, says it's about grieving mothers, not politics

Siaya Governor James Orengo has defended the planned June 25 demonstrations commemorating victims of the 2024 Gen Z protests, saying the events are being led by grieving families seeking justice and accountability.

Speaking during a press briefing, Orengo said the demonstrations were initiated by mothers and relatives of those killed, injured or otherwise affected during last year's anti-government protests.

“The petition is in the name of the mothers. The notice for the demonstrations was also presented by the mothers,” he said.

He maintained that the planned protests are lawful and that the police have a constitutional obligation to provide security for demonstrators.

“When somebody gives notice of a demonstration in accordance with the law, the police are required to provide security and protect the rights of those who are demonstrating,” he said.

Orengo criticised attempts to discourage participation in the demonstrations, insisting that Kenyans have a constitutional right to assemble peacefully.

The governor also supported calls by families of the victims for June 25 to be recognised as a public holiday in remembrance of those who lost their lives during the protests.

“What about a day when more than 50 young people were killed? There is nothing wrong with commemorating such a day in a democracy,” he said.

He appealed to Kenyans to either join the demonstrations or observe the day from their homes as a mark of respect for the victims.

At the same time, Orengo urged protesters to maintain peace and avoid any form of violence.

“I appeal again that the demonstrations on June 25 should be peaceful. Remember the mothers. This is about the mothers who lost their children,” he said.

The governor further accused the government of focusing on compensation rather than accountability for the deaths and injuries reported during the protests.

According to Orengo, justice for victims should include investigations and the prosecution of those responsible, alongside compensation for affected families.

He also called on President William Ruto to publicly guarantee the safety of demonstrators and ensure that security agencies protect constitutional freedoms during the commemorative events.