Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has said 355 people were arrested across the country during Thursday’s demonstrations, even as the government maintained that the day’s events were largely peaceful and free of widespread violence.
In a security update issued on June 25, 2026, Murkomen said there were no widespread cases of looting, vandalism, skirmishes or injuries linked to the demonstrations, adding that calm prevailed in most parts of the country.
He commended Kenyans for heeding the government’s call to maintain peace and continue with their daily activities.
“This is not only commendable but also a testament to the maturity of our politics and governance,” Murkomen said.
The Cabinet Secretary said peaceful processions were held in Nairobi and Mombasa by families and friends of victims of past protests, as well as members of the public. He said business continued largely as usual in towns across the country.
Murkomen defended the heavy security presence and screening mounted on major highways leading into Nairobi, saying the measures followed credible intelligence that groups were being ferried into the city to cause a breach of peace.
He said security agencies acted to protect businesses and prevent chaos in the capital.
“Security screening was therefore mounted on major highways into the city this morning to keep the would-be troublemakers at bay,” he said.
The restrictions disrupted movement into Nairobi, with motorists and commuters subjected to checks on key routes. Murkomen acknowledged the inconvenience caused but said the measures were effective in securing the city and other parts of the country.
“We regret the inconveniences occasioned by these measures, and at the same time appreciate their effectiveness in securing the city and other parts of the country,” he added.
According to the Interior Ministry, Nairobi recorded the highest number of arrests at 161, followed by Kajiado with 123 and Kiambu with 36.
Other arrests were reported in Murang’a, where 12 people were arrested, Bungoma with nine, Meru with six, Laikipia with five and Machakos with three.
Murkomen said no arrests were reported in North Eastern, Nyanza and Coast regions.
The Cabinet Secretary said those arrested would be arraigned in court to face various charges, including robbery, vandalism, road obstruction and attempted stealing.
He said while the country remained generally calm, a few individuals allegedly attempted to commit crimes under the cover of peaceful demonstrations.
Murkomen also reported that the Assistant Chief of Kariti Sub-Location in Murang’a County, Anthony Gathungu, was injured after being attacked by a group of individuals who were allegedly attempting to erect a barricade in Kandara.
Gathungu was treated at Kagunduini Health Centre and discharged in fair condition.
The Interior CS praised security agencies for what he termed professionalism, effective organization and prompt response to concerns raised by members of the public.
He also thanked journalists and media houses he said reported responsibly and accurately on the day’s events.
Murkomen said the government supports demonstrations conducted within the Constitution but expressed hope that future protests would not disrupt people who are not participating in them.
“We all have an equal stake in the future of our country; let us guard our peace and stability jealously,” he said.
Follow our social media pages for breaking news updates, in-depth stories and videos.
news@nairobilens.ke
