Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has rescinded a Monday directive to county officers, popularly known as "kanjos", granting them powers to arrest Kenyans who record them during their operations within the county.

During a session of the Nairobi County Assembly on Thursday, Sakaja clarified that Kenyans have the right to record the officers as long as they don't impede them from enforcing their mandate, further highlighting scenarios where citizens have obstructed "kanjos" from performing their duties.

"To set the record straight and to be clear, there is no problem in recording officers as they perform their duties; if anything it leads to increased accountability. You can even shoot a movie if you want," Sakaja said.

"What we will not accept is obstructing them or inciting the public to turn against them as they perform their duties. We have had unfortunate incidents where some of our officers have been attacked in their line of duty. This is unacceptable and we will not tolerate this. We must let our enforcement officers do their work."

Sakaja subsequently issued a strong warning to Nairobi residents who obstruct "kanjos" in their line of duty, emphasizing that such actions are punishable under Kenyan law.

"The people of Nairobi affirmed their desire for a city of order and order will be maintained," he said.

He additionally requested the support of members of the Assembly in protecting "kanjos" and ensuring they are held accountable for their actions.

"Honorable members I really expect your support in protecting our officers but ensuring that they also have accountability for the work that they do and that they treat the people of Nairobi with dignity. This is an affirmation we have made and intend to keep," said Sakaja.