“Tuesday demonstrations in Nairobi’s CBD are illegal”; Police Declare Fuel Protests Unlawful, Issue Strong Warning Ahead of Planned Demonstrations

Authorities in Nairobi have issued a stern warning over planned protests against rising fuel prices, declaring the demonstrations unlawful and cautioning that strict action will be taken against those who proceed.

Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud said the protests scheduled for April 21 do not meet the legal requirements outlined under the Public Order Act. He pointed out that organisers failed to submit the mandatory notice to police, making the planned gatherings illegal. “Although we are aware of calls for protests next week, no official notification has been filed. This renders the planned demonstrations unlawful, and appropriate action will be taken,” he stated.

Mohamud emphasised that the law requires organisers to notify police between three and fourteen days before holding any demonstration. This allows authorities to prepare security, manage traffic, and agree on routes to minimise disruption. Without such coordination, the situation can quickly become unsafe.

He further warned that police will not tolerate unlawful activities during the planned protests. “Demonstrations, public gatherings within Nairobi City; we operate strictly within the law guided by Public Order Act and the Constitution of Kenya 2010,” he said. He added that the police do not oppose protests but only facilitate those conducted legally and peacefully.

The commander also cautioned against actions such as blocking roads, disrupting businesses, or engaging in violence, noting that such acts would trigger a firm response from law enforcement officers.

“We do not oppose or do not give permission to demonstrations, but we facilitate lawful assemblies to ensure that the citizens exercise their constitutional rights safely and without interference,” Mohamud added.

With the protest date approaching, police have made their position clear: any demonstration held outside the legal framework will be treated as unlawful, and those involved will face the consequences.