The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a ban on all protests in Nairobi CBD and its surrounding areas until further notice. This directive, announced yesterday in a press release, responds to the recent wave of Gen Z protests that have swept across the capital and the country at large.
The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kirocho, outlined the rationale behind the ban, highlighting the substantial losses and damages incurred since the onset of the protests. Kirocho noted that the demonstrations, which initially began as peaceful expressions of dissent, have repeatedly been infiltrated by goons who’ve caused massive destruction.
IG Kirocho emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that intelligence reports indicated organized criminal groups were planning to exploit the protests further. This information, coupled with the past instances of violence and vandalism, prompted immediate action to maintain law and order.
He explained that the decision was imperative to fulfil the police’s constitutional role of the national police in preserving national security. The move aims to prevent further chaos and protect citizens from potential harm.
One of the significant challenges cited by the police is the leaderless nature of the Gen Z protests. Unlike traditional demonstrations led by identifiable figures or organizations, these protests have lacked centralized leadership, making it difficult for authorities to engage in deliberations and establish coordination for maintaining peace. The absence of a clear leader or organizing body has hindered efforts to manage the protests effectively and ensure that they remain non-violent.
“…the lack of designated leadership in the previous demonstrations has made it difficult to enforce safety protocols.”
In light of these developments, the National Police Service is urging the public to remain vigilant. Citizens are advised to stay informed about the situation and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The call for vigilance underscores the ongoing risk posed by those seeking to exploit the protests for criminal purposes.
