Nairobi Regional Police Commander Adamson Bungei, on Friday, July 7, warned Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga against matching into Nairobi's Central Business District during their Saba Saba rally.
Bungei, who spoke with the media, cautioned that the Public Order Act prohibits protesters from demonstrating in the city centre without a permit. He further vowed to pull all stops to ensure businesses within the CBD are protected.
In line with his directive to the opposition, the police boss instructed his officers to derail any protesters heading into the CBD and arrest those who defy his orders.
"We have authorised the Azimio la Umoja Coalition to conduct their rally only at Kamkunji Grounds under strict adherence with the provisions of the law," read part of Bungei's directive.
According to the Regional Commander, any attempt to match into Nairobi's Central Business District would pose a security risk to the protesters and businesses in the area.
Bungei emphasised that the opposition rallies normally attract large crowds with rogue elements seizing the opportunity to orchestrate wanton destruction of property.
Azimio la Umoja, on Thursday, July 7, asked their supporters to prepare for a grand match in the Central Business District in protests against the Finance Act 2023, which they claimed would burden ordinary Kenyans.
Speaking at Kamkunji Grounds, Makadara Member of Parliament George Aladwa argued that the Constitution allowed the opposition to picket and protest and that the Public Order Act was only used to suppress dissenting voices.
The coalition urged its members to congregate at the Nairobi Central Business District after the Kamkunji rally, especially those from Westlands, Kibra, and Eastlands.
“You all know that Saba Saba is a historic day. So tomorrow, we begin shaping a new history from this venue led by our leader Raila Odinga.
"We welcome all Kenyans from all walks of life to begin arriving here as early as 4.30 am. We shall be very peaceful and hold a very peaceful meeting,” Aladwa stated.
He also warned the police of unspecified consequences should they attempt to halt the demonstrators from matching into the CBD.
“We want to tell the government and especially the police to give us peace,” Aladwa cautioned.
