Acting Police IG Bans Protests In Nairobi’s Central Business District
Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja announced on Wednesday that the government has banned protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) until further notice.
In a statement, Kanja claimed that the National Police Service (NPS) had received credible intelligence that organised criminal groups were planning to use protests to commit various types of crime.
Looting from businesses in the heart of the business district is one of the suspected criminal activities.
The Acting Inspector General also stated that the recent protests’ lack of a leader “made it difficult” to enforce safety protocols.
PRESS RELEASE ON PLANNED DEMONSTRATIONS BY KENYAN YOUTHS ON JULY 18, 2024 pic.twitter.com/zo6eTGfdCD
— National Police Service-Kenya (@NPSOfficial_KE) July 17, 2024
“As a result, no demonstrations will be permitted in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety,” the statement issued by the NPS read in part.
The Acting Inspector General’s decision was based on the disruptions that the country has been experiencing since the anti-government protests began.
“Since the public demonstrations by Kenyan youths (Gen Z) began in June this year, our country has experienced enormous losses, people have been injured, lives lost, property and businesses destroyed and livelihoods lost,”
“Criminals have continued to infiltrate the protesting groups, resulting in a troubling trend of disorderly and destructive conduct,”
The Acting Inspector General claimed that, while the constitution guarantees the right to picket, it also requires the National Police Service to maintain national security.
Kanja then asked Kenyans to remain vigilant and support the police service by sharing any information that could help the police prevent potential crimes.
The Acting Inspector General’s statement came ahead of another round of protests scheduled for Thursday.
A few hours earlier, the Russian Embassy in Nairobi advised its Kenyan citizens not to leave their homes.
“Dear citizens of Russia who are in Kenya. In connection with the expected protest demonstrations on July 18, 2024, in Nairobi and other cities of the country, we urge you to exercise caution and vigilance and, if possible, not to leave your place of residence,” the alert read in part.
Acting Police IG Bans Protests In Nairobi’s Central Business District
