NAIROBI, Kenya- Police have warned that Nairobi’s Central Business District will be out of bounds for political gatherings on Sunday ahead of the Linda Mwananchi rally at Jacaranda Grounds.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud said security agencies had received information about planned disruptions within the city centre during the opposition movement’s mobilisation activities.
Mohamud warned participants against entering the CBD or disrupting businesses, traffic and other activities in the capital.
“The CBD is a critical, national, commercial and public space. Particularly on Saturday and Sunday. Don’t even try; we will deal with you,” he warned.
The warning comes as Linda Mwananchi leaders prepare to hold their rally at Jacaranda Grounds in Embakasi East Constituency on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
Police are expected to deploy officers across the city, particularly within the CBD and along routes leading to the rally venue, to maintain order and manage traffic.
Linda Mwananchi had announced several stops across Nairobi ahead of the main meeting at Jacaranda Grounds. Its leaders have been mobilising residents and traders in Eastlands while urging supporters to attend the gathering.
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino previously said the movement intended to pass through Nairobi’s CBD before proceeding to Jacaranda Grounds.
The planned route appears to have triggered the latest police warning.
The Linda Mwananchi leadership has maintained that the meeting will proceed as scheduled, saying police were notified about the event in accordance with the law.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya earlier said organisers were not seeking permission to assemble but had informed the authorities about the rally.
He said the meeting would proceed even if organisers encountered difficulties accessing their preferred venue.
The Constitution guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions peacefully and while unarmed. The Public Order Act, however, requires organisers to notify the police before holding a public meeting or procession.
Organisers may also be directed to change the venue, date or time if another gathering has already been scheduled at the same location.
Security concerns have surrounded the Nairobi rally following violence witnessed during some recent political meetings across the country.
Linda Mwananchi leaders have accused groups of planning to disrupt their activities, while police have repeatedly warned political actors against mobilising gangs or engaging in violence.
Motorists and businesses have been advised to monitor official traffic and security updates as police prepare to restrict political activity within the CBD and secure Jacaranda Grounds.
The rally is part of Linda Mwananchi’s nationwide mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The movement has held events in several counties, including Busia, Kakamega, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Machakos, Homa Bay and Meru.
