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Alex Mwakideu questions critics of June 25 protests, cites constitutional freedom
24th June, 2026 08:15 AM
Radio host Alex Mwakideu has questioned those opposing the planned June 25 anniversary protest, saying the Constitution protects peaceful protests.
He raised concerns over calls for Gen Z protesters, victims, and other Kenyans not to take part in marches that organisers have described as peaceful.
“Ikiwa wananchi ambao wenyewe wanasema kwamba maandamano wanayopanga kuandamana, ikiwemo wale walioadhirika , ni maandamano ya amani,” Mwakideu said on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
He pointed to remarks by Siaya Governor James Orengo, who has been linked to the planned demonstrations. Mwakideu said Orengo had stated that some of those taking part intend to carry flowers during the event.
“James orengo mwenyewe ambaye anaongoza sana wansiasa katika maandamano hayo anasema kwamba wanataka kupeleka maua,” he said.
Mwakideu questioned why some people are against citizens taking part in what has been described as a peaceful march. He wondered whether those opposing the demonstrations believe public protests should no longer take place in Kenya.
“Hivi, wanaosema hawa ma Gen Z na hao wakenya na waadhiriwa wasiandamane kwa Amani kupeleka maua, wana maana kwamba ndio mwisho wa maandamano ya wananchi ya kenya?” he asked.
He maintained that the right to demonstrate is protected under the law. According to Mwakideu, citizens should be allowed to exercise that right as long as they do so peacefully and within the limits of the Constitution.
Call to protect constitutional rights
Mwakideu went on to question whether those criticising the planned marches recognise that demonstrations are allowed under the Constitution. He said the right to assemble and express views through demonstrations should not be ignored.
“Hivi wanajua kwamba maandamano yanaruhusiwa kikatiba katika taifa la kenya?” Mwakideu asked.
The media personality also turned his attention to the government’s role in protecting constitutional freedoms. He questioned whether the state is prepared to safeguard the rights guaranteed to citizens under the Constitution fully.
“Demonstrations are a constitutional right. Is the government willing to protect this right with all its might?” he said.
Mwakideu further noted that the president took an oath to defend and uphold the Constitution. He suggested that protecting the right to peaceful demonstrations is part of that responsibility.
“Rais aliapa kulinda katiba ya Kenya,” he stated.
June 25 remains an important date in Kenya because it marks the anniversary of the 2024 youth-led anti-tax and anti-Finance Bill protests. The day has become a time of remembrance for those who lost their lives during the demonstrations and the events that followed.
