As Kenyans prepared to mark Saba Saba Day on Monday, the National Police Service (NPS) issued a stern warning against attempts to access protected government installations or engage in unlawful activities during the planned protests.
In a statement released Sunday, police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, law, and order across the country, urging citizens to exercise their constitutional right to assemble and protest within the confines of the law. While acknowledging the public’s right to demonstrate, police warned that any acts of looting, vandalism, or incitement to violence would be met with firm and lawful action.
“Looting, vandalism of any form, and destruction of property shall not be tolerated,” the NPS warned. They emphasized that protesters must remain peaceful and unarmed, citing the Penal Code (Cap. 63, Sections 78 and 82), which prohibits armed assemblies.
Police also cautioned against provocations or confrontations with law enforcement officers, reminding the public that interfering with police officers on duty is a serious offence. They reiterated that any riotous or unlawful behavior would prompt appropriate force in order to protect lives and property.
This comes as sections of the public continue to demand justice for victims of last year’s anti-government protests and greater accountability from leaders. Over the past few days, Kenyans have taken to the streets, calling for reforms and condemning excessive force by police during previous demonstrations.
However, Nairobi legislators have voiced concern that the protests risk being hijacked by political opportunists and criminal elements. In a joint press briefing, lawmakers urged the youth to avoid being manipulated by politicians seeking to exploit the Saba Saba movement for personal gain.
“What should have been peaceful expressions of concern have been turned into violent confrontations,” the leaders said, warning of rising tribal rhetoric and destruction of property.
As tensions rise, both the police and political leaders are calling for calm, urging citizens to engage constructively and avoid violence. The police have assured the public of their professionalism but maintain that any criminal behavior during the protests will be met with swift legal action.
