NAIROBI, Kenya- Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has warned that planned nationwide protests will only be considered lawful if organisers comply with legal requirements, including prior notification to security agencies.
The caution comes amid reports of planned demonstrations next week, with police indicating they have not received formal communication from organisers as required under Kenya’s public order laws.
Kanja stressed that while the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly under Article 37, the exercise of that right must follow established legal procedures.
He maintained that failure to notify police in advance would render any demonstrations unlawful and expose participants to enforcement action by security agencies.
Security officials have repeatedly argued that notification is necessary to allow proper coordination, crowd management, and protection of both protesters and critical infrastructure.
Rising tension ahead of protests
The warning follows heightened political mobilisation and growing calls for protests over various national issues.
Recent weeks have seen increased public demonstrations across parts of the country, prompting security agencies to remain on high alert.
In earlier statements, police leadership has also cautioned against the infiltration of protests by criminal elements, saying such incidents pose risks to public safety and property.
Balancing rights and security
Authorities have maintained that they will facilitate peaceful and lawful protests, but will act firmly against unlawful gatherings or attempts to breach restricted or protected areas.
The statement underscores the ongoing balance between constitutional freedoms and public order management as Kenya continues to experience periodic protest activity linked to socio-economic and political grievances.
In previous incidents, similar protest bans or restrictions in Nairobi have been issued and later challenged in court, reflecting ongoing legal and civic debates over the limits of public assembly rights.
