Police announce a ban on demonstrations in Nairobi CBD on Thursday.

The National Police Service has affirmed its commitment to respecting the sanctity of human life while addressing the nationwide protests. However, it has banned any demonstrations within the Nairobi CBD and its surroundings on Thursday. In a statement issued Wednesday evening, Acting Police IG Douglas Kanja expressed regret that what began as peaceful demonstrations have resulted in the loss of lives and property damage due to criminal infiltration.

"While the constitution under Article 37 provides for the right to assemble and picket to present petitions to public authorities, it also outlines the critical role the NPS plays in national security," Kanja's statement reads.

Kanja further stated that the National Police Service has received credible intelligence indicating that organized criminal groups plan to exploit the protests scheduled for Thursday, July 18, 2024, to execute attacks and loot.

"The absence of designated leadership in previous demonstrations has hindered the enforcement of safety protocols. Consequently, no demonstrations will be allowed in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety," the statement continues.

Kanja also urged the public to cooperate with the police to maintain order within the Nairobi CBD on Thursday.

"We appeal to the public to remain vigilant in crowded areas and support our collective safety and security by sharing any information that may assist the police in crime detection and prevention," he said.

This statement follows chaotic protests on Tuesday in some parts of the country, which led to isolated injuries from clashes between security forces and protesters.

Three people, including a journalist, were allegedly shot during anti-government protests in Nakuru.

In Machakos, a group of protesters unsuccessfully attempted to storm the police station to free an arrested colleague.

In Kericho Town, youths allegedly hired to block the demonstrations disappeared after being repelled by protesters.

Two people were shot dead, and five motorcycles were torched during the demonstrations in Mlolongo, Machakos County, on Tuesday. The two men reportedly succumbed to bullet injuries allegedly inflicted by police officers deployed to quell the protests.

Additionally, two more people were reported shot dead, and several sustained bullet injuries during anti-government demonstrations in Kibwezi, Makueni County, on Tuesday.