Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has refuted claims that the police have imposed a blanket ban on all demonstrations.

The police chief's statement, released late on Friday, July 19, clarifies the situation following a controversial order earlier in the week.

The earlier directive, which sought to halt protests in Nairobi and its environs indefinitely, was issued on Wednesday, citing security concerns.

This came after a month of relentless anti-government demonstrations, resulting in at least 50 deaths, according to human rights groups. However, the High Court suspended the ban, offering a temporary reprieve to Kenyans.

Kanja defended the initial order, explaining that it was based on credible intelligence reports indicating potential threats linked to the planned protests.

“On July 17, 2024, we issued a notice based on credible intelligence, alerting the public of potential threats associated with the planned demonstrations. We appreciate the public's cooperation in adhering to the advisory and refraining from holding demonstrations within the Central Business District and surrounding areas,” Kanja stated.

He emphasised that public demonstrations had not been banned outright. “The nature of public demonstrations is dynamic, and intelligence regarding everyone's safety and security is evolving and will continue to inform our planning and guidelines,” he added.

Protests had been planned for Tuesday, July 23, under the banner 'Occupy Uhuru Park,' but did not take place as police had cordoned off the area. Nairobi's city centre has become the epicentre of youth-led protests, spreading across the nation. 

Initially sparked by unpopular tax hikes, the protests have now expanded to demand President William Ruto’s resignation.

Despite the High Court's suspension of the ban, police maintained a heavy presence in the capital on Thursday, anticipating further protests. Businesses cautiously delayed opening, waiting to see the outcome of the day’s events. 

The police had previously stated that no demonstrations would be permitted in Nairobi's Central Business District and surrounding areas "until further notice to ensure public safety."

The controversial ban sparked widespread outrage online, with many arguing that the police overstepped their authority. The law enshrines citizens' right to hold demonstrations, a point emphasised by civil rights organisations who challenged the ban in court.

Douglas Kanja reiterated the police's position, noting that their decision was informed by intelligence reports indicating that organised criminal groups were planning to exploit the protests. 

“Criminals have continued to infiltrate the protesting groups, resulting in a troubling trend of disorderly and destructive conduct,” Kanja said.

The police also cited the lack of designated leadership in previous demonstrations, complicating efforts to enforce safety protocols. 

In his statement, Kanja urged those planning any protests to seek authorisation from the police at least three days in advance. The issue of protest permissions has been contentious, with accusations that the police have been suppressing the right to protest.

“We remind the public that, in accordance with Section 5(3)(a) and (c) of the Public Order Act, any individual who intends to organise a public gathering or procession must notify the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) in charge of the area in writing at least three days but no more than fourteen days prior. The application should specify the full names and physical address of the organiser, as well as the proposed site of the public meeting or the proposed route in the case of a public procession,” stated Kanja on Friday.