Government Calls for Peace Ahead of June 25, Announces Compensation for Protest Victims and Assures Kenyans on Affordable Housing Ownership



The Government has urged Kenyans to uphold peace, national unity and the rule of law ahead of planned demonstrations, while reaffirming its commitment to compensating victims of human rights violations and safeguarding property rights under the Affordable Housing Programme.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Government Spokesperson Media Centre at Harambee Annex, Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. Dr. Isaac Mwaura conveyed the government's condolences to traders affected by the recent Gikomba fire, saying investigations into the recurring incidents are underway through the National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC), relevant government agencies and the Nairobi County Government.

Dr. Mwaura emphasized that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions peacefully, but warned against violence, destruction of property and attacks on law enforcement officers during protests.

He noted that while peaceful demonstrations are a cornerstone of democracy, recent protests have been infiltrated by criminal elements, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property and economic losses estimated at KSh6 billion.

The government further clarified that June 25 is not a public holiday and urged citizens to engage in productive activities that promote economic growth, livelihoods and national cohesion.

At the same time, the government announced progress in the compensation programme for victims of human rights violations that occurred between 2017 and 2026. Backed by a KSh2 billion allocation, the initiative seeks to provide restorative justice through compensation for victims and affected families.

According to the government, more than 1,100 victims have already been verified for compensation, with payments ranging from KSh50,000 for minor injuries to at least KSh3 million for families of deceased victims.

The government also condemned political violence and warned politicians against sponsoring goons or exploiting demonstrations for political gain, saying all perpetrators will face the full force of the law.

On affordable housing, Dr. Mwaura dismissed claims that homeowners could lose their houses following a change of government, stating that homes purchased under the Affordable Housing Programme are legally protected under the Constitution and remain the permanent property of owners.

He said beneficiaries receive legally recognized sectional titles, making the homes transferable, inheritable and fully protected by law.

The government also addressed concerns surrounding the proposed relocation of the Nairobi Animal Orphanage within Nairobi National Park, assuring Kenyans that all legal and environmental procedures are being followed and that no reduction of the park's size will occur.

Regarding the modernization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the government maintained that the procurement process is transparent and compliant with procurement laws, dismissing reports suggesting otherwise.

Additionally, the government announced the establishment of the African Anti-Corruption Studies and Research Centre in Nairobi, describing it as a major step in strengthening Kenya's leadership in the fight against corruption across the continent.

The government called on all citizens to maintain peace, respect the law and work together to safeguard national unity and economic stability.

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