Police Chief Clarifies Stance on Nairobi Protests Amid High Court Suspension of Ban

Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has refuted claims of a ban on public protests in Nairobi, asserting that his recent directive was meant to caution the public about potential threats linked to demonstrations.

In a statement issued on Friday, Kanja emphasized that the nature of public demonstrations is inherently fluid, with ongoing intelligence assessments affecting safety and security protocols. He assured that the police service remains committed to guiding protestors who inform the authorities of their intentions in advance and to providing public guidelines.

“The service will continue guiding the protestors who notify respective jurisdictions of intended demonstrations and give guidelines to the public,” Kanja stated. He reiterated the legal requirement for demonstrators to inform the police of their planned routes and to do so well in advance.

Kanja expressed appreciation for public cooperation in following advisories and avoiding demonstrations within the Central Business District (CBD) and adjacent areas. “We appreciate the public’s cooperation in adhering to the advisory and refraining from holding demonstrations within the Central Business District and surrounding areas. It is important to clarify that we have not banned public demonstrations,” Kanja affirmed.

Kanja’s clarification comes on the heels of a High Court order that suspended the police ban on protests within Nairobi’s CBD and its surrounding areas. The order was a response to a petition filed by the Katiba Institute, challenging the constitutionality of Kanja’s directive.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued the suspension on Thursday, July 18, after an urgent application contested the Acting Inspector General’s order. The court’s decision underscores the judiciary’s role in balancing public safety concerns with constitutional rights, particularly the right to assemble and demonstrate.

The ongoing dialogue between the police and the public highlights the delicate balance between maintaining order and respecting democratic freedoms. As intelligence and security dynamics continue to evolve, the public remains keenly interested in how these developments will shape the future of public demonstrations