Activist groups in Kenya and the youth, commonly called the Gen Zs, are on Thursday, November 21, 2024, planning for protests.
The groups are gearing up for their first major wave of protests since President William Ruto formed his broad-based government and have planned to rally near the Parliament buildings in Nairobi among other places countrywide.
The demonstrations, dubbed “The Final Revolution”, are set to coincide with Ruto’s second State of the Nation address.
Plans for the protests which had been outlined in banners circulating online reveal intentions to occupy key institutions across the country, including Parliament, where the President is scheduled to address a joint sitting of lawmakers.
Under the rallying cries of “Fixing the Nation” and “We Are Punching Up”, the protesters are gearing up for another round of protests in their continued push for reforms in the country as they demand that President Ruto steps down, citing frustrations over the state of the economy and governance.
Here is The Kenya Times live updates of the planned protests
2:50PM: Arrests made
Activist Julius Kamau and others arrested while protesting in Nairobi.
In a video seen by The Kenya Times, Kamau was seen being bundled into a Police vehicle near the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building.
1:20PM: Heavy police presence
Security has been briefed in Nairobi CBD as Police vehicle patrols outside the Parliament Buildings ahead of President’s address. President Ruto is expected to make his way anytime from now.
12:00PM: No protests witnessed
As of midday, no protest activity had been reported. Despite the limited activity, Police officers continue patrolling the CBD.
11:00AM: Roads leading to Parliament blocked
Police in Nairobi block all roads leading to Parliament ahead of President Ruto’s State of the Nation address and the anticipated protests.
9:50AM: Police spotted in CBD
Anti-riot police officers spotted patrolling the CBD along Kimathi Street.
7:30AM: British multinational security company G4S issues a security advisory
G4S issued a report out lining potential scenarios, security measures, and implications for the public.
Expected scenarios according to the company include heavy Police deployment, road closures, potential for clashes, and delays.
“Anticipate a significant police presence in and around Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) and key routes leading to Parliament. This deployment aims to maintain order and ensure public safety during the protest,” the advisory reads in part.
Roads leading in and out of the CBD, especially around the Parliament area, are likely to be blocked to manage traffic and control access. Expect potential delays and rerouting of public transport.
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G4s further said that given the nature of the protest and previous incidents, there is a possibility of clashes between protesters and security forces. Police are prepared to respond to any unrest to prevent escalation.
In response, the company urged Kenyans to anticipate transport and business disruptions, particularly in the vicinity of the protest.
Also Read: Gen Zs Announce Date for Fresh Anti-Ruto Protests
According to the company, past demonstrations have shown that initial turnout may be low in the early morning, with participation increasing as the day progresses.
Authorities are expected to monitor crowd size and behavior closely.
Public Advisory
G4S advised citizens to stay alert and informed about the situation as it develops.
If possible, citizens were asked to avoid areas around Parliament and the CBD on the day of the protest to minimize exposure to potential disruptions
“As the planned demonstration approaches, the situation remains fluid. Increased security measures are crucial to managing potential unrest and ensuring public safety. Stay tuned for further updates and maintain awareness of your surroundings.”
Earlier
Wednesday: National Police Service issues statement on planned protests
NPS in a statement through its Spokesperson Dr. Resila Onyango, on Wednesday night dismissed the planned Gen Z protests.
Dr. Onyango said that the organizers of the protests failed to notify the Police three days in advance, as required by law.
“In exercising this right, the law places a responsibility on organizers to notify the Regulating Officer (Officer Commanding Station) in writing at least three days, but no more than fourteen days, in advance, specifying the details of the planned meeting. This requirement is intended to ensure that proper safety and security measures are put in place by the police during public demonstrations,” part of the statement read.
“To date, no such requisite notification has been issued to the Regulating Officer by any organizer or planner, as required under the Public Order Act.”
Onyango further said that law-abiding Kenyans are urged to continue with their daily activities without fear, even as the NPS reiterated its commitment to serve and protect all people in the country.
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