The government has assured traders affected by the recent Gikomba Market fire of support as investigations into the cause of the incident begin, while also urging Kenyans to commemorate the first anniversary of the Gen Z protests peacefully and without disrupting economic activities.
Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi on Monday, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura said the government was fully aware of the devastating impact the fire had on hundreds of traders who rely on the market for their daily livelihoods.
Mwaura described the fire as a significant economic setback, noting that many traders had lost merchandise, business premises and investments accumulated over many years. He said the National Disaster Operations Centre, working alongside the Nairobi County Government and other agencies, had already begun assessing the damage and coordinating support measures for affected traders.
According to Mwaura, the government remains committed to helping traders recover and resume their businesses as quickly as possible. He appealed to the public to allow investigators to carry out their work without interference or speculation, saying a comprehensive investigation would establish the cause of the fire and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The government spokesman also addressed the planned June 25 demonstrations, reiterating that the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions, but warning that such freedoms must be exercised peacefully and responsibly.
While acknowledging the importance of public demonstrations in a democratic society, Mwaura expressed concern over the violence witnessed during some recent protests, which he said had resulted in deaths, injuries and extensive destruction of property after being infiltrated by criminal elements.
Addressing concerns about police conduct during demonstrations, Mwaura maintained that accountability remains important, stating that, “Police brutality remains unacceptable and must be addressed whenever it occurs.”
At the same time, he emphasized that violence against law enforcement officers is equally unacceptable, noting that, “The Constitution protects every citizen from violence regardless of their role in society.”
Mwaura said the government recognizes the delicate balance between protecting the right to protest and safeguarding the rights of other citizens to work, conduct business and move freely. He noted that once demonstrations turn violent, security agencies are legally empowered to intervene and restore public order.
The government clarified that June 25 will not be observed as a public holiday despite calls from some groups for nationwide protests. Mwaura urged Kenyans to continue with their normal activities and contribute to national development, arguing that the country cannot afford further economic disruptions while businesses are still recovering from previous unrest.
According to government estimates, recent demonstrations caused losses exceeding Ksh6 billion, affecting traders, transport operators and investors across multiple sectors of the economy.
Mwaura called on citizens to honor the memories of those who lost their lives during previous protests in a peaceful and responsible manner, while avoiding actions that could trigger further instability or destruction.
He also cautioned politicians against exploiting public demonstrations for political gain, warning that inflammatory statements and confrontational politics risk undermining national cohesion and stability. The government, he said, remains committed to ensuring that democratic competition is conducted within the law and with respect for constitutional institutions.
Security agencies have been directed to remain vigilant against any attempts to incite violence, destroy property or undermine public order, with the government warning that anyone found culpable will face legal consequences regardless of their political status.
Beyond matters of security, Mwaura announced that the government is preparing to roll out compensation payments for victims of human rights violations through the Uwiano Programme.
The programme, supported by a Ksh2 billion allocation approved by Parliament and guided by recommendations from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, seeks to compensate victims of human rights violations dating back to 2017.
Government records show that more than 1,500 claims have already been verified and approved for compensation, while additional applications continue to be processed. Beneficiaries include families of those who lost their lives, survivors of serious injuries and victims of other violations, including rape, during periods of unrest.
Mwaura said the compensation programme is rooted in restorative justice and is intended to promote healing and reconciliation while allowing investigations and prosecutions related to past violations to continue independently.
The government spokesman further raised concerns over what he described as growing incidents of political intolerance and violence in various parts of the country. He condemned acts of hooliganism and politically motivated attacks, saying they threaten national unity and undermine citizens’ constitutional freedoms.
As the country moves closer to the 2027 General Election, Mwaura urged political leaders and their supporters to embrace tolerance, peaceful coexistence and issue-based politics, emphasizing that Kenya’s democratic progress depends on maintaining peace, respecting the rule of law and protecting the rights of all citizens.
