The Cabinet, led by President William Ruto, has commended the country's security forces for their professional and restrained response to the recent protests against the controversial Finance Bill.
Over the past week, large demonstrations have taken place in major cities across Kenya as citizens voiced their opposition to the new tax measures proposed in the Finance Bill.
The protests had the potential to turn violent, but the police and other security agencies were able to maintain order without infringing on the protesters' right to assemble.
During the Cabinet meeting, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki praised the actions of the security personnel. He said they demonstrated "exemplary professionalism" in handling the demonstrations.
Kithure explained that the police established clear boundaries around the protest sites, allowing people to express their views while also ensuring that essential services and infrastructure were not disrupted. He also highlighted instances where officers de-escalated tense situations through dialogue and negotiation rather than using force.
"In a climate of heightened emotions and partisan rhetoric, our security personnel demonstrated remarkable restraint and impartiality," Kithure said. "They upheld their duty to maintain public order without infringing on the democratic freedoms of the people."
Other Cabinet members echoed Kithure 's sentiments, thanking the security forces for putting the interests of the nation first.
They said the measured approach of the officers had helped prevent the protests from spiraling out of control and causing widespread disruption or damage.