Police have reported receiving "credible intelligence" indicating that organized criminal groups are planning to disrupt Tuesday's peaceful demonstrations.
Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has urged protesters to be cautious and vigilant against potential threats to their safety during the demonstrations.
“This morning, we received credible intelligence indicating that certain organized criminal groups have planned to infiltrate, disrupt, and destabilize the peaceful nature of the demonstrations, which could potentially jeopardize the safety of demonstrators,” the police chief stated.
“While you demonstrate, we urge you to remain peaceful and vigilant. Please collaborate, cooperate, and coordinate with the police to ensure your safety and our collective security as Kenyans are guaranteed during the event.”
Kanja pledged that the police would "uphold the rule of law; serve and protect; maintain law and order; and ensure that every Kenyan enjoys their constitutional rights."
The youth-led nationwide protests initially began last month over the Finance Bill, 2024. Although President William Ruto has since dropped the contentious draft bill, dissolved his Cabinet, and pledged government austerity in an effort to pursue inclusive leadership, many Kenyans continue to demand his resignation.
On social media and in the streets, Kenyans have been chanting “Ruto must go,” calling for continued protests until the President steps down.
The previous round of protests resulted in the deaths of over 40 protesters.
Kenyan police faced criticism for opening fire on unarmed protesters, arresting and abducting some of the youth, and using violence to suppress demonstrators.
On Friday, Japhet Koome resigned as the Inspector General of Police following intense criticism over his officers' conduct during the demonstrations. Previous protests also saw instances of looting and vandalism, largely blamed on hired goons.
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