Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga has said the National Police Service (NPS) has not received any formal notice about the planned Saba Saba protests set for Monday, July 7.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Thursday morning, Nyaga confirmed that while Kenyans have a right to protest, the law requires organisers to notify police in advance.
“As of now, we have not received any official application. Once we do, we will give our position,” he said.
He warned that holding demonstrations without permission could lead to arrests, especially if the demos turn out chaotic or lead to destruction of property.
Nyaga asked Kenyans, especially those who resided in Nairobi, to follow the example of Mombasa residents who recently asked for police clearance before holding protests.
He also said that the police are ready to work with organisers to ensure peaceful demonstrations.His remarks come after rights group National Alternative Alliance (NAA) announced their plans to mobilise Kenyans for Saba Saba Day.
The group, led by Arnold Maliba and Kennedy Ondiek, said that the demonstration will push President William Ruto to addressg the public’s frustrations.