IG Koome declares Azimio protests 'threat to national security', says no demos will be allowed

Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, in a statement on Tuesday, said the Raila Odinga-led faction had not made any formal notification to the police on the planned gatherings, hence the protests are unlawful.

He thus warned Kenyans against participating in the demos saying the police would accordingly deal with demonstrators.

“In line with NPS mandate to maintain law and order; protect life and property; and preserve peace, we wish to inform the public that any demonstrations that will be held in any part of Kenya on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, will be dealt with promptly in accordance with the law,” IG Koome stated.

“Contrary to the legal requirements, no organizers/planners of the purported demonstrations have notified the Police of such gatherings.”

The IG cited the past demonstrations as witnessed in some parts of the country last week saying they had led to deaths and destruction of property and hence pose a threat to national security and would not be allowed.

He, therefore, urged the public to attend to their day-to-day duties.

“While Article 37 of the Constitution gives the right to assemble, demonstrate and picket, lessons from recent similar demonstrations that left trails of destruction of property, injuries and loss of lives, clearly indicate that such demonstrations are nothing but a threat to national security,” he noted.

Koome added: “We therefore urge all law-abiding members of public to carry-on with their daily activities, and commend all NPS Officers for their continued patriotism, selfless and dedicated service to our Country.”

The announcement by Koome comes hours after Azimio said they would not relent but would demonstrate from Wednesday through to Friday.

President William Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki have also warned protestors and reiterated that no gatherings would be condoned.