Parliament Calls for Justice in Response to Civil Unrest, Violence

The National Assembly on Thursday June 26, 2025 moved a motion condemning the acts of lawlessness, destruction, and vandalism that marred public demonstrations across the country on June 25, 2025.

The motion, moved by Minority Leader Hon. Junet Mohammed and seconded by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah, addressed widespread violence, arson, and destruction of public and private properties during protests in areas including Nairobi, Kikuyu, and Ol Kalou.

The House expressed deep concern over incidents of violence targeting civilians, security personnel, and public infrastructure, including the burning of Kikuyu Law Courts and attempts to invade institutions like State House Girls, Nairobi.

The motion reaffirmed the constitutional right to peaceful assembly under Article 37 but condemned the deliberate destruction of property, including court records, and attacks on innocent citizens and police officers.

It called for swift investigations by the Inspector-General of Police and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to hold accountable those responsible, including politicians allegedly involved in planning, mobilizing, financing, and inciting the chaos.

Junet described the protests as a politically motivated attempt to destabilize the government, alleging ethnic mobilization and pointing to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as a key sponsor.

“This was not a Gen-Z protest but a political event meant to overthrow the constitution,” he stated, urging Kenyans to pursue change through elections in 2027 rather than “backdoor” tactics. He also cautioned the media against inciting chaos to settle political scores.

Ichung'wah echoed the condemnation, highlighting personal losses, including an attack on his family’s property and an attempt on his elderly parents’ lives.

“We cannot build a country through vengeance,” he said, noting the deliberate targeting of businesses, particularly those owned by the Mt. Kenya community, and the burning of court facilities.

He urged Inspector-General Douglas Kanja to investigate and prosecute those responsible, including politicians securing court orders to evade arrest.

In a separate motion, the House, led by the Majority Leader, resolved to alter its calendar pursuant to Standing Order 28(4). The Assembly will commence a short recess on July 2, 2025, hold a sitting on July 1, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., and resume regular sittings for the Second Part of the Fourth Session on July 22, 2025.

The resolutions underscore the Assembly’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights while condemning lawlessness and ensuring the legislative schedule accommodates critical national issues.

Komen S.K is a student at Kabarak University pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication.