The National Police Service (NPS) has outlawed peaceful protested and warned members of the public against staging or taking part in any unauthorised demonstrations amid social media posts of planned anti-government demos today as president William Ruto is set to deliver the State of the Nation address a joint session of Parliament this afternoon.
In a statement released yesterday evening, NPS Spokesperson Dr. Resila Onyango cautioned that the police had not received the required formal notification from protest organisers as stipulated under the Public Order Act.
This morning, a spot check by The Informer Media Group established that security has already been heightened within the Nairobi Central Business District, around Parliament buildings and State House.
The address marks President Ruto’s third appearance before the bicameral Parliament since taking office.
The President’s address comes amid growing public discontent over high taxes and the new health insurance fund, which have sparked outrage among Kenyans and criticism from church leaders, who accuse him of failing to honour his promises.
It also follows the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua as Deputy President last month, replaced by Kithure Kindiki—a move that has stirred unease in the Mount Kenya region, where Gachagua was regarded as a key political figure.
His first address inaugurated the 13th Parliament on September 29, 2022, and his second, on November 9, 2023, fulfilled the constitutional requirement for the annual State of the Nation address.
The alert comes amidst reports circulating on social media suggesting that protests may be organised in response to growing dissent among citizens against the government.
“Attention of the National Police Service (NPS) is drawn to information circulating about planned demonstrations on Thursday, November 21, 2024 through social media. NPS further acknowledges the Constitutional right of Kenyans to peaceably and while unarmed, assemble, picket, demonstrate or present petitions to public Offices.” The statement read in part.
Despite acknowledging the constitutional right of Kenyans to peacefully demonstrate, the police stressed that this right is conditional as the police have to be notified in advance.
Resila emphasised that organisers are legally obligated to inform the authorities in advance.
The Public Order Act requires protest organisers to notify the officer commanding station (OCS) in writing, providing details of the planned demonstration at least three days but no more than 14 days before the event.
“In exercise of these right, the law places a responsibility on organizers to notify the Regulating Officer (Officer Commanding Station) in writing at least three days but no more than fourteen days in advance, specifying the details of the planned meeting. This requirement is intended to ensure that proper safety and security measures are put in place by Police during public demonstrations. To date, no such requisite notification by any organizer/planner has been issued to the Regulating Officer,” the NPS noted, urging citizens to continue their daily activities without fear of disruption.” The statement adds.
