On Wednesday, the National Police Service (NPS) issued a warning to the public, advising against participation in the planned protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) scheduled for today.
In a late-night statement, NPS spokesperson Resila Onyango clarified that no official notice had been received regarding the protests, as required by law. The demonstrations had been organized by a group of Kenyans on social media ahead of President William Ruto’s State of the Nation Address to Parliament later today.
“The National Police Service (NPS) has been made aware of information circulating on social media regarding planned protests on Thursday, November 21, 2024,” Resila stated. “While the Constitution guarantees Kenyans the right to peacefully assemble, protest, and petition public offices, the law requires organizers to inform the Regulating Officer (Officer Commanding Station) in writing at least three days but no more than fourteen days before the event, providing details of the demonstration.”
“As of now, no such notification has been submitted by any organizer,” the statement continued, urging the public to carry on with their daily activities without fear of disruption.
Despite the warning, early Thursday morning, police were stationed throughout the city in preparation for the expected protests. Officers patrolled on foot and in vehicles, dispersing any gatherings of more than three people.
The caution comes amid social media reports suggesting a demonstration linked to rising political discontent. President William Ruto is set to address Parliament at 2:30 p.m. today, where he will outline his administration’s achievements. Activist groups have indicated plans to gather near Parliament or in the city center to protest what they describe as poor governance.
