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Kenyan Police Ban Protests Indefinitely In Nation’s Capital, Nairobi

Kenyan Police Ban Protests Indefinitely In Nation’s Capital, Nairobi
July 18, 2024

While the demonstrations began peacefully, they subsequently turned violent, culminating in a brief incursion into the parliament building on June 25.

Kenyan authorities have prohibited protests in central Nairobi until further notice, citing the hijacking of demonstrations by organized criminal gangs.

 

The ban comes after weeks of anti-government protests, which were initially sparked by proposed tax hikes.

 

Despite President William Ruto's withdrawal of the legislation and dismissal of his entire cabinet, the protests have regrettably resulted in at least 50 deaths over the past month.

 

The youth-led demonstrations have been marked by violence and unrest, leading to the current ban.

 

Activists demand Ruto's resignation and systemic reforms to combat corruption and poor governance.

 

"We have credible intelligence that organized criminal groups are planning to exploit the ongoing protests to execute attacks, including looting," said Douglas Kanja Kiricho, the chief of police, in a statement released late Wednesday, Reuters report.

 

"No demonstrations will be permitted in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety," Kiricho added.

 

 

 

 

 

The ongoing protests, which were coordinated online and appear to be independent of opposition political leaders, have presented the most significant challenge to President Ruto's administration since he took office two years ago.

 

While the demonstrations began peacefully, they subsequently turned violent, culminating in a brief incursion into the parliament building on June 25.

 

This led to a police response involving gunfire. In an effort to address the concerns driving the protests, President Ruto's office has initiated plans for "multi-sectoral" discussions this week. However, as of Thursday, there was no confirmation that these talks had commenced.

 

Leading protest figures have rejected the invitation, calling for immediate action on issues like corruption.

 

Some activists have urged people to gather with camping gear at Uhuru Park, near Nairobi's city center.

 

A heavy police presence was noted in the city on Thursday morning, according to a Reuters reporter.

 

"The police and President Ruto have no power to suspend rights guaranteed by the constitution," activist Boniface Mwangi was quoted as saying in response to the protest ban.

Topics
Kenya