Police attributed the imposition of the ban to concerns over criminal groups intending to "infiltrate" the demonstrations. This decision follows weeks of violent incidents during anti-government protests, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Kenyan Police Prohibit Protests in Central Nairobi
Activists issued a call for people to gather in a park near Nairobi's city center on Thursday, following police's announcement that demonstrations would no longer be allowed in the capital's heart. Kenya's youth-led protests, which have resulted in numerous casualties, persist despite President William Ruto withdrawing proposed tax increases that initially sparked the unrest.
Police imposed the ban late Wednesday, citing infiltration of the protests by disruptive elements. Acting National Police Chief Douglas Kanja declared, "No demonstrations will be allowed in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety," in a statement.
Authorities warned of organized criminal groups planning to disrupt the peaceful demonstrations, leading to violence, property damage, and disruption of daily life for Kenyans. The ban follows recent smaller protests met with tear gas by police.
Rights groups criticized the police's use of excessive force, with the National Commission for Human Rights reporting 39 deaths and 32 abductions since June 18. Initially peaceful, the protests escalated, notably when demonstrators briefly stormed parliament on June 25, prompting police to use live ammunition.
In response to the ban, activist Boniface Mwangi tweeted that neither the police nor the president can suspend constitutionally guaranteed rights. Activists circulated posters online urging protesters to assemble at Uhuru Park before marching to State House on Thursday.
The protests, organized online without backing from opposition political figures, represent a significant challenge to Ruto's administration in its two-year tenure. Leading protester Hanifa Edan previously noted infiltration by "goons" within the movement.
Ruto's office mentioned plans for "multi-sectoral" discussions this week to address grievances, though there were no indications of talks commencing on Thursday. Key protest leaders have rejected invitations for dialogue, demanding immediate action on corruption and other issues.