Kenya’s police have issued an indefinite ban on protests in central Nairobi, citing infiltration by organized crime gangs. Activists had planned a gathering at Uhuru Park on Thursday but were met with a heavy police presence.
The protests, which began a month ago against tax increases, have resulted in at least 50 deaths.
Demonstrators are calling for President Ruto’s resignation and demanding reforms to address corruption and poor governance. Police chief Douglas Kanja Kiricho stated on Wednesday, “We have intelligence that criminal groups plan to use the protests for attacks and looting. No demonstrations will be allowed in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings to ensure public safety.”
The protests, organized online without support from opposition politicians, have created the biggest crisis in Ruto’s two-year rule. While Ruto offered to form a broad-based government, the opposition rejected this and called for a constitutional convention instead.
Initially peaceful, the rallies have frequently turned violent. On June 25, protesters stormed parliament, prompting police to open fire. Although Ruto’s office announced plans for talks to address grievances, there was no indication by Thursday that these talks had begun.
Protest leaders are demanding immediate action on corruption.
