Police Ban Demonstrations in Nairobi CBD on Thursday

NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 17 – Independent Policyservice banned demos within the Nairobi Central Business District and its environs on Thursday. This move has been taken to forestall any breakdown of public order and safety following protests countrywide.

Image: Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.

The acting Police IG, Douglas Kanja, reiterated the police's resolve to uphold the sanctity of human life in containing the protests Wednesday evening in a statement. Kanja said that infiltration by criminal elements into an otherwise peaceful protest has unfortunately led to acts of violence and property destruction.

"While the constitution under Article 37 provides for the right to assemble and picket to present petitions to public authorities, the constitution equally provides for the critical role the NPS plays in national security for our country," said Kanja.

He further disclosed that the National Police Service had received credible intelligence that the organized criminal groups intend to take advantage of protests called for Thursday, July 18, 2024.

 "The demonstrations that have been taking place so far have no designated leadership; hence it has been impossible to ensure safety protocols. Therefore, no demonstrations will be allowed in Nairobi Central Business District and its environs until further notice to ensure public safety," he added.

He further appealed to the members of the public to cooperate with the police in maintaining order in the Nairobi CBD. "We, therefore, appeal to public members to be vigilant in crowded areas and support our collective safety and security by sharing any information that may aid the police in crime detection and prevention," Kanja urged.

This follows chaotic protests around various parts of the country Tuesday, which left several people injured and property destroyed. In Nakuru, three people, among them a journalist, were reportedly shot during anti-government protests. 

In Machakos, protesters tried to storm a police station to free an arrested colleague, while in Kericho Town, hired youths who had been used to block the demonstrations vanished after being repelled by protesters.

During the clashes with police in Mlolongo, Machakos County, two people were shot dead and five motorcycles torched. In Kibwezi, Makueni County, two were shot dead and a number of others sustained bullet injuries in the run-in with police during demonstrations.

The police intention to ban Thursday's demos is to avoid further loss of life and property and to ensure the safety of the public and property within Nairobi.