Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja has urged demonstrators to cooperate with law enforcement amidst reports of criminal groups planning to infiltrate today’s protests.
Kanja said that these groups aim to disrupt and destabilize the peaceful nature of the demonstrations, posing a significant risk to the safety of participants.
“While you exercise your right to demonstrate, it is imperative to remain peaceful and vigilant,” Kanja emphasized.
“We urge all demonstrators to collaborate, cooperate, and coordinate with the police to ensure not only your safety but also the collective security of all Kenyans during this event.”
The heightened security concerns come ahead of planned nationwide protests to honor those who lost their lives in previous demonstrations.
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Major roads leading to State House have been barricaded, and many businesses opted to remain closed amid fears of potential violence or disturbances.
Police authorities have assured the public of adequate security measures despite the prevailing tensions.
Since the protests began on June 18, at least 43 fatalities have been reported, with over 400 individuals injured. Instances of looting and violence were also reported, attributed to infiltrating groups seeking to exploit the unrest.
Kenyan citizens are mobilizing to demand justice for those killed during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests and to call for an end to alleged abductions by state agents.
Activist Boniface Mwangi reaffirmed the resolve of demonstrators, stating: “The peaceful protests will proceed as planned until the government takes responsibility for the deaths of protesters. We seek tangible actions, including a formal apology from the President to the bereaved families.”
