Stay Away from Protected Areas and Don’t Provoke Police: IG Kanja Warns Ahead of Wednesday Protests
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has issued a stern warning to protesters ahead of the June 25 demonstrations honouring those who died during last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests.
In a brief press statement, IG Kanja urged demonstrators to stay away from protected areas and not to provoke police officers. He emphasized that officers would act strictly within the law to protect lives and property.
“We urge protesters to operate within the law. Our officers will remain vigilant, and their priority is to ensure the safety of all Kenyans,” Kanja stated.
The police boss was flanked by DCI Director Amin Mohamed, GSU Commandant Ranson Lolmodoni, DIG in charge of APS Gilbert Masengeli, and Nairobi County Commander George Seda, among other senior police officials. He did not take any questions from the press.
The caution comes as security agencies finalize plans to maintain order during the much-anticipated protests.
Nairobi Police Chief George Seda also reiterated the preparedness of the police force to ensure peace prevails during the demonstrations.
“We have the plan and we shall be there to provide enough and good security to ensure every person who is going to participate and those not going to participate will be safe,” Seda said on June 18.
He added that the police had received a formal letter notifying them of the planned protests, as required by law.
“Let’s restrict ourselves to what we call peaceful demonstrations. Let’s not have demonstrations which interfere with others who may not be part of the protest,” he appealed.
Seda reminded the public that June 25 is a working day, urging demonstrators not to disrupt businesses, shops, hotels, or the movement of non-protesting citizens.
“We are looking uncivilised when we start converging, and then as we continue, it turns violent. It beats the logic of conducting it, which makes the situation worse,” he warned.
The police message reinforces growing calls for restraint, peace, and lawful expression ahead of Wednesday’s commemorative protests.
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Stay Away from Protected Areas and Don’t Provoke Police: IG Kanja Warns Ahead of Wednesday Protests