Nairobi police declare planned Saba Saba protests illegal
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud has declared the planned Saba Saba demonstrations illegal, citing lack of notification, and warned that anyone who gathers will be treated as a criminal.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud has declared the planned Saba Saba demonstrations illegal, citing lack of notification, and warned that anyone who gathers will be treated as a criminal.
Speaking ahead of the anticipated protests, Mohamud said police had not received any formal notification from organisers, a legal requirement for any public demonstration.
“We have held meetings with commanders from Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado and Nairobi because we face common challenges during protests.
We have seen reports on social media about the planned Saba Saba demonstrations tomorrow, but we have never been notified, which is a legal requirement,” he said.
“We have not received any notification, even from the neighbouring counties. To us, the planned protests are merely allegations and are therefore illegal. A peaceful and unarmed demonstration starts with a notification indicating the date, routes and time. That has not happened.
Mohamud warned that officers would move firmly against anyone who turned up.
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“If you gather anywhere tomorrow, we will treat you as criminals. We are aware that the previous protests failed, and that there are plans to incite violence and engage in looting. We will deal with anyone involved firmly,” he said.
The commander assured residents that businesses and those reporting to work would be protected.
“We will protect businesses and those going to work in Nairobi. We will isolate and deal firmly with criminals while upholding professionalism as the police. Tomorrow is a normal work day and there will be peace,” he said.
On public transport, Mohamud said there would be no blanket ban on movement, though some areas would face restrictions.
“We do not intend to interfere with the movement of public service vehicles. However, there will be restrictions in some areas, such as around Parliament. We will allow PSV buses into Nairobi city after screening,” he said.
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