Kenyan authorities have issued a warning about credible intelligence indicating planned disruptions by organized criminal groups during Tuesday’s scheduled nationwide protests.
Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja urged demonstrators to remain cautious and vigilant, emphasizing potential threats to their safety.
“This morning, we received credible intelligence indicating that certain organized criminal groups have planned to infiltrate, disrupt, and destabilize the peaceful nature of the demonstrations, which could potentially jeopardize the safety of demonstrators,” Kanja stated in a released statement.
In response to these developments, Kanja called upon protesters to prioritize peace and collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies.
“While you demonstrate, we urge you to remain peaceful and vigilant. Please collaborate, cooperate, and coordinate with the police to ensure your safety and our collective security as Kenyans are guaranteed during the event,” he urged.
Kanja assured the public that the police would uphold the rule of law and ensure the protection of constitutional rights during the demonstrations.
“We will uphold the rule of law; serve and protect; maintain law and order; and ensure that every Kenyan enjoys their constitutional rights,” he pledged.
The youth-led protests, which initially began in response to the Finance Bill, 2024, have continued despite President William Ruto’s subsequent actions, including dropping the controversial bill, dissolving his Cabinet, and pledging governmental austerity.
On social media and in the streets, demonstrators have been vocal with chants of “Ruto must go,” reflecting widespread discontent with the current leadership.
The previous rounds of protests resulted in the deaths of over 40 protesters, prompting criticism of the police for alleged use of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and other forms of violence to suppress dissent.
ALSO READ;
