By Collins Wanzallah
Nairobi city was yesterday rocked by the sounds of tear gas and gunshots, which police claimed were rubber bullets, during the Nane Nane protests. Little activities went on in the city as many people avoided the city following the announcement by the organisers to hold the demonstration.
Most shops and car parking areas remained closed, and a few people who chose to come to the city used public service vehicles (PSVs). Police officers were placed in strategic places in the city, while others were seen patrolling and not allowing groups of people to gather.
Among places that police didn`t allow people to regroup were at the National Archives and Tom Mboya Statue, Jeevanjee Gardens, and junctions of different roads and streets. Along the roads leading to the city, a combined force of traffic police was stationed on different parts searching vehicles following rumours that some of the would-be demonstrators intended to use PSV vehicles to enter the city.
The organisers of the demos indicated that yesterday’s demos would be the “mother of all demonstrations” through different social media platforms. They said that they wanted President William Ruto and his government to resign over alleged poor governance and high levels of corruption.
On Wednesday, the acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli affirmed that the police were prepared to maintain law and order during the anti-government protests during a press conference at Jogoo House, he was accompanied by senior officers including Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei, and police spokesperson Dr Resila Atieno Onyango. Mr Masengeli emphasised that protesters were entitled to demonstrate as long as they adhered to the law.
Masengeli acknowledged that peaceful demonstrations led by Gen Z had been infiltrated by individuals intent on stealing and destruction of property. He reiterated the government’s stance that such criminal activities would not be tolerated and assured the public that the police would take necessary measures to stop them.
He also reminded demonstrators of the legal requirement to notify the police through an area Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at least three days before any protest took place for proper security arrangements. Furthermore, Masengeli warned protesters against targeting government installations such as airports, which are highly secured. He stressed that no one would be allowed to breach these areas during the demonstrations.
Masengeli assured the public that security would be significantly heightened nationwide and encouraged citizens to continue with their daily activities without fear.
