Kisumu, Kenya – As Gen-Z activists gear up for nationwide memorial protests on Wednesday, June 25, Nyanza Regional Police Commander Evelyn Nyamohanga Gisiri has issued a firm public commitment to protect the rights of peaceful demonstrators.

Speaking during a security briefing in Kondele, a known flashpoint for political unrest, Commander Gisiri reassured the public that police will provide security for both protesters and bystanders, emphasizing that her team will act in accordance with the rule of law.

“We are here to ensure safety and to protect constitutional rights,” she stated. “As long as the procession remains peaceful, we shall do our part to maintain order and respect for all involved.”

Her message stands in stark contrast to more cautious—and at times contradictory—statements from national officials. While organizers have repeatedly affirmed the peaceful nature of the memorial events, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has insisted that no formal demonstrations will be allowed, urging Kenyans to mark the anniversary privatelyinstead.

In response, opposition leaders have declared June 25 a symbolic ‘public holiday’, dedicated to remembering the young lives lost during the 2024 protests. The day is expected to include vigils, marches, and calls for justice across the country.

In the midst of these mixed official messages, Commander Gisiri’s pledge stands out as a measured and rights-focused stance, offering a degree of assurance in a politically charged environment. She concluded her remarks by encouraging participants to exercise their freedoms with “sobriety and a commitment to peace.”

As tensions simmer and expectations mount, all eyes will be on how law enforcement and the public navigate what promises to be a day of reflection, resilience, and renewed calls for accountability.