The National Police Service (NPS) has cautioned the public against participating in any protests on Thursday, November 21, 2024, as President William Ruto delivers the State of the Nation Address in Parliament.
In a statement released Wednesday evening, NPS Spokesperson Dr. Resila Onyango said the police had not received formal notification from any organizers, as required under the Public Order Act.
The warning comes amid reports circulating on social media about possible demonstrations tied to growing political discontent.
“The attention of the National Police Service (NPS) is drawn to information circulating on social media about planned demonstrations on Thursday, November 21, 2024. NPS further acknowledges the constitutional right of Kenyans to peaceably and unarmed assemble, picket, demonstrate, or present petitions to public offices,” the statement read in part.
However, Dr. Onyango emphasized the legal requirement for organizers to provide prior written notice to the Regulating Officer, specifically the Officer Commanding Station (OCS), between three and fourteen days in advance.
“This notification ensures that proper safety and security measures are put in place by police during public demonstrations,” the statement added.
“To date, no such requisite notification by any organizer or planner has been issued to the Regulating Officer,” the NPS noted, urging the public to go about their daily activities without fear of disruption.
