The Kenyan authorities have imposed a blanket ban on protests in central Nairobi, citing the hijacking of demonstrations by organized criminal gangs.
The move comes after weeks of anti-government protests, which have resulted in at least 50 deaths and over 100 injuries.
The protests, led by youth and civil society groups, began in response to proposed tax hikes but have since expanded to demand President William Ruto’s resignation and systemic reforms to combat corruption and poor governance.
Despite the president’s withdrawal of the controversial tax legislation and the dismissal of his entire cabinet, the protests have continued, with demonstrators demanding more concrete actions to address the country’s economic and political challenges.
The police ban on protests comes after a violent incident on June 25, when demonstrators stormed the parliament building, resulting in a police response involving gunfire.
Activists have rejected the ban, calling it an attempt to suppress their constitutional rights. “The police and President Ruto have no power to suspend rights guaranteed by the constitution,” said activist Boniface Mwangi.
The situation remains tense, with a heavy police presence in the city and protesters vowing to continue their demonstrations despite the ban. The government has announced plans for “multi-sectoral” talks to address the protesters’ concerns, but no date has been set for the dialogue.