NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 5-The National Police Service has warned political leaders and their supporters against violence, incitement and unlawful gatherings, saying no one will be shielded from prosecution as Kenya enters an increasingly active electioneering period.

📻 Breaking It Down

The NPS said it would strictly enforce the Public Order Act while maintaining political neutrality and protecting citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, association and participation in political activities.

The warning comes amid what the police described as incidents of political intolerance, violence and thuggery reported in various parts of the country.

“Individuals found to be engaging in acts of violence, sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters, or disrupting lawful gatherings will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law,” NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said.

📌 What You Need to Know

The Service emphasised that political affiliation, social status or public office would not protect anyone found to have violated the law.

“The NPS once more totally reaffirms that no person, regardless of social status, political affiliation, or public office, is above the law,” Nyaga said.

The police also reminded political actors and organisers that public meetings and processions must comply with Section 5 of the Public Order Act.

Organisers are required to notify the regulating officer at least three days and no more than 14 days before a planned meeting or procession.

The notification must provide the organiser’s full names and physical address, as well as the proposed venue or, in the case of a procession, the intended route.

The proposed date and time must also be specified, with public meetings and processions falling between 6 am and 6 pm under the provisions cited by the NPS.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya