Nairobi Gears Up for June 25 Protests as Police Complete Tactical Blueprint

Nairobi is bracing itself for widespread protests scheduled to begin on 25 June. 

Kenyan authorities are implementing a multilayered strategy designed to maintain public safety and uphold constitutional rights to peaceful assembly. The intensified security measures follow high-level discussions amongst senior police officials in Nairobi, focusing on preventing the unrest seen in previous demonstrations and ensuring adherence to the law. Inspector General of Police (IG) Douglas Kanja has spearheaded these strategic deliberations, culminating in a coordinated operational plan involving the deployment of police units throughout the capital. 

This proactive approach marks a shift from earlier responses, emphasising early intelligence gathering, real-time coordination, and logistical readiness, identified as areas needing improvement after the June 2024 protests. The Police Command Centre at Jogoo House will serve as the central hub for this operation, with senior officers monitoring developments via real-time feeds and issuing directives to officers stationed across key locations in Nairobi. The Central Business District (CBD) has been identified as a primary focus for demonstrations, resulting in the deployment of officers from the General Service Unit (GSU), Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), and regular police services.

IG Kanja has stressed the importance of facilitating peaceful demonstrations while adopting a zero-tolerance stance towards any criminal activity within protest events. In a public statement, Kanja has reassured Kenyans of the force's commitment to maintaining order through lawful means, urging protesters to exercise restraint and follow police instructions. 

"We urge all participants to demonstrate peacefully. Those with disruptive intentions should know they will be held accountable," he warned.

These intensive planning sessions have taken place amidst heightened scrutiny following the recent resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, pending an investigation into the controversial death of a prominent blogger. Kanja, along with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, reportedly met at State House this week to refine the government's strategy for handling the upcoming protests.

The operational plan includes proactive foot and mobile patrols, supported by water cannon trucks stationed at strategic points. Sensitive areas, such as Parliament Road and roads near the State House, are to be cordoned off to prevent unauthorised access. Public advisories regarding road diversions are expected to be issued prior to the demonstrations beginning. Additional contingents, including mounted police and canine units, are also on standby.

A noteworthy aspect of the security plan is its dual focus on crowd control and demonstrator protection. A dedicated team from the Nairobi Central Police Station has been specifically tasked with safeguarding peaceful protesters, acknowledging public concerns regarding the potential blurring of lines between policing and suppression. Police spokesperson Michael Muchiri has confirmed the intense preparations, describing the past week as a period of "continuous strategic refinement." 

Nairobi Regional Commander George Seda echoed these sentiments, assuring residents that "comprehensive measures are in place to protect both protesters and the general public."