Gov’t Issues Statement On June 25 Public Holiday Claims
Isaac Mwaura, the government spokesman, has ruled out June 25 as a public holiday, saying that it will remain a regular working day despite a planned march to honor victims of previous protests.
Mwaura spoke on Monday, June 22, as politicians and activists urged Kenyans to take to the streets for peaceful demonstrations.
“We should have a distinction between peaceful demonstrations and violent actors, ensuring constitutional rights are protected,” Mwaura said.
“We effectively wish to clarify that June 25 is not a public holiday and will remain a working day. Citizens are urged to move forward and work that day to build our economy.”
ISAAC MWAURA ISSUES JUNE 25 WARNING: Govt Says No Public Holiday, Condemns Violence in Gen Z Commemorations pic.twitter.com/pvR6vS1GMM— Government Spokesperson of The Republic of Kenya (@SpokespersonGoK) June 22, 2026
Mwaura emphasized a clear distinction between lawful, peaceful protest and violent disturbances, emphasizing that constitutional rights should not be used for political purposes.
The Finance Bill 2024 protests, which were the hallmark of the annual rallies, left a devastating impression on the country.
It claimed more than 60 lives according to the Kenya National Commission for Human Rights (KNCHR), and destroyed property, losses that have hit ordinary Kenyans the hardest.
According to Mwaura, the Kenya Revenue Authority estimated that the protests cost the country at least Ksh6 billion.
The government noted that the actual figure is likely far higher than that conservative projection.
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Mwaura called out politicians, warning them to stop using demonstrations as a tool to inflame tensions and score political points at the public’s expense.
This sheds a spotlight on Siaya Governor Jame Orengo, who has strongly supported the planned June 25 nationwide demonstrations to mark the one-year anniversary of the historic 2024 Gen Z anti-Finance Bill protests.
He has since emerged as a key leader backing the memorial marches, insisting the events are about seeking justice and accountability for victims.
On the other front, President William Ruto has also come bare-knuckled on politicians who are inciting protests against the 2026 Finance Bill.
Ruto stated that they should stop the propaganda that might plunge the country into chaos and eventual anarchy, even as he is expected to assent to the bill on June 23.
Gov’t Issues Statement On June 25 Public Holiday Claims
