Kenya protesters
Kenya: Court stops police ban on Gen Z protests
The High Court of Kenya has suspended the National Police Service’s (IG) ban on protests by Kenyan youths (Gen Z). The ban was issued by IG Douglas Kanja.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye of the Milimani High Court declared the application challenging the ban urgent. The case will be prioritized.
“Pending the hearing on 18/07/2024, a conservatory order suspending the National Police Service’s ban on demonstrations in Nairobi Central Business and nearby areas is issued,” the ruling stated.
The judge restrained the acting IG from enforcing his decision dated 17th July 2024. This order also applies to all other personnel in the National Police Service (NPS) or those supporting them.
This suspension remains until the case is heard on July 18. The judge also directed IG Kanja to communicate these orders to all NPS officers.
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“The Acting Inspector-General of Police must circulate official communication of these orders to all NPS officers and the general public by the end of 19/07/2024. Evidence of this must be filed in court,” the ruling added.
This order followed a petition by Katiba Institute against the State Law Office after the NPS banned planned protests in Nairobi CBD and surrounding areas.
Acting IG Douglas Kanja cited security concerns and previous disruptions as the reasons for the ban. He mentioned that since the protests began in June, there have been significant losses, injuries, and damage to property and businesses.
“Criminals have infiltrated the protesting groups, causing disorder and destruction. For national security, we have credible intelligence that organized criminal groups plan to use these protests for attacks, including looting,” said Kanja.
The acting IG highlighted the lack of leadership within the Gen Z protests, making it hard to enforce safety protocols. Hence, no demonstrations will be allowed in Nairobi CBD and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety.
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