The Acting Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli, has announced heightened security measures for Thursday, August 8, 2024 dubbed as ‘#NaneNanematch‘, when protests are scheduled to take place across Kenya.
The protests are organized by citizens voicing their dissatisfaction with the current administration and calling for President William Ruto to step down.
In a statement, Masengeli warned that law enforcement officers will be vigilant to prevent any acts of violence or lawbreaking during the demonstrations.
He emphasized that while the right to protest is constitutionally protected, any criminal activities will not be tolerated.
“We are committed to ensuring public safety and maintaining order. Everyone has the right to demonstrate, but it must be done peacefully and within the law,” Masengeli said during a briefing at the Administration Police Training College in Embakasi on August 6, 2024.
Recent social media campaigns have seen Kenyans rallying online, preparing for the large-scale demonstrations planned for Thursday.
The protests, driven in part by dissatisfaction with the Finance Bill of 2024, are expected to see significant participation, particularly from youth advocating for governmental reforms.
The Finance Bill, which introduced controversial tax measures, had already sparked prior unrest. The initial protests resulted in a response from security forces that included the use of live ammunition, leading to civilian casualties.
In response to the outcry, President Ruto had rejected the bill, sending it back to Parliament with a message signaling his disapproval.
Thursday’s planned protests will be the latest in a series of public demonstrations aimed at pushing for changes in the country’s leadership.
The police will be working closely with county officials and other stakeholders to manage the demonstrations and ensure that they remain peaceful.
