In Summary:
1) Acting Inspector General Douglas Kanja announces a ban on demonstrations in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
2) The decision follows weeks of youth-led anti-government protests that have resulted in property damage and loss of life.
Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has declared an indefinite ban on protests within Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) and surrounding areas.
This decision comes in response to ongoing youth-led anti-government demonstrations that have occurred in the city center since June.
Kanja stated, “We have credible intelligence that organized criminal groups are planning to take advantage of the ongoing pretests to execute their attacks including looting.”
The police have faced challenges in maintaining public safety during these demonstrations.
Kanja explained, “The lack of designated leadership in previous demonstrations has made it difficult to enforce safety protocols.”
Citing international security standards, Kanja said that public assemblies “require a designated leader to coordinate, collaborate and cooperate with police for peaceful demonstrations.”
As a result of these concerns, Kanja announced, “No demonstrations will be permitted in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety.”
The ban follows weeks of unrest that have resulted in significant property destruction and loss of life, which the police attribute to criminal infiltration of the youth-led protest movement.