Police Warn Ahead of Saba Saba Day Protests, Urge Peace and Legal Compliance
The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a warning ahead of the anticipated Saba Saba Day protests scheduled for Monday, July 7.
Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga has stated that, as of now, the police have not received any formal communication regarding the planned demonstrations.
Speaking during a Thursday morning interview on Citizen TV, Nyaga clarified that no official notification had been submitted to the police by any group or individual regarding the upcoming protests.
He emphasized that while Kenyans have a constitutional right to demonstrate, it is crucial for those organizing such activities to first seek permission from the police.
“We want to make it clear that no one has formally informed us of any planned protests. The law is clear, and once we receive an official request, we will issue a formal statement on the matter,” Nyaga said.
He stressed the importance of adhering to legal procedures when organizing protests, warning that failure to do so may lead to legal consequences. According to him, protests held without police authorization are considered illegal and often lead to unrest and destruction of property.
“I urge all Kenyans to be law-abiding citizens. This country belongs to all of us, and even though sometimes the police may be accused of using excessive force, we must ensure that any demonstrations remain peaceful and within the confines of the law,” he added.
Nyaga particularly called on residents of Nairobi and other major cities to follow the example set by Mombasa residents, who recently held peaceful protests after properly notifying the police and obtaining the required permits.
He expressed the willingness of the police service to work with organizers to ensure that any planned protests on Saba Saba Day remain peaceful and orderly.
His statement comes at a time when reports are emerging about a possible new round of protests on July 7, with the aim of pushing President William Ruto to respond to the concerns of ordinary citizens.
The National Alternative Alliance (NAA), a human rights advocacy group, announced on Wednesday, July 2, that it is preparing to mobilize Kenyans to mark Saba Saba Day through protests. According to the group, many citizens are disillusioned with how the country is being run.
Arnold Maliba and politician Kennedy Ondiek, the group’s conveners, said in a statement that the protests are being organized in response to growing frustrations with President Ruto’s leadership. They claimed that ordinary Kenyans are burdened by rising living costs, widespread corruption, and poor governance.
“We are organizing Saba Saba Day protests because many Kenyans feel abandoned and unheard. This government is not delivering on its promises, and the only thing that seems to be working is corruption,” said Maliba.
As tension builds ahead of the symbolic Saba Saba Day, which has historically been a day of protest and political reflection in Kenya, both the police and civil groups are calling for peaceful engagements.
The police service is urging organizers to follow the correct legal process, while advocacy groups are insisting on the need for citizens to express their dissatisfaction with the current state of governance.
Join Gen Z New WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
