The Government through the Ministry of Interior and Coordination has announced Monday, December 13, a public holiday.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i through a statement noted that Jamhuri Day falls on a Sunday, December 12, and its celebration will be held on the said day but Kenyans will have their holiday pushed to Monday in line with the Constitutional provisions of Sections 2 and 4 of the Public Holidays Act (Cap 110).
- National Police Service condemn video of GSU graduands
- Police imposter drags out female police officer in Kisii
- Mama Ngina Girls closed indefinitely following unrest
“This day bears profound historical significance as it marks the attainment of Kenya’s independence and the birth of the Republic. All citizens are encouraged to honour and celebrate this day in a manner that promotes unity, national cohesion, and economic progress in the country,” the statement read.
Adding, Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho affirmed that strict guidelines from the Ministry of Health will be observed on the day of celebrations to counter Covid-19 prevalence in the country.
Addressing the media on Friday, December 3, the PS pointed out that the event will be held at Uhuru Gardens following recommendations by National Celebrations Committee and they will only allow 11,000 people to attend the event.
“Roughly 11,000 people will attend the event because we have to observe the Covid-19 protocols very carefully. Since Covid came around, we have been holding one celebration where the President is present,” PS Kibicho stated.
In the past, the Government used to host public holidays such as Mashujaa Day in various counties every year, but the custom was abandoned after consultations from experts amid the outbreak of the pandemic.
Since the first Corona Virus case was reported in Kenya in March 2020, the Ministry of Health apprised the Government to limit the number of people who congregate in places such as churches and social events such as funerals.