Police deployed in Nairobi CBD ahead of Linda Mwananchi rally
Anti-riot police officers were Sunday deployed across major streets in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) ahead of a planned Linda Mwananchi mobilisation rally.
The officers were seen patrolling the city on foot and in police vehicles, with authorities saying the deployment was intended to prevent criminal activity, including attacks on businesses and looting.
However, organisers of the rally criticised the move, terming it wrong and provocative. They argued that police should provide security for the event after being notified of the planned activities.
A crowd gathered outside All Saints Cathedral, where the Linda Mwananchi team had assembled for a church service ahead of the rally.
Another group believed to comprise supporters of the movement was also seen in the CBD chanting and singing as police officers watched from a distance.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud said police had barred the movement from holding a rally within the CBD and warned leaders against making statements likely to incite violence.
Mohamud said police had received notification of the planned rally through Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, with the procession expected to culminate at Jacaranda Grounds.
He maintained that the CBD would remain off-limits to the rally, warning that police would not allow the capital to descend into chaos.
“The CBD is a critical national, commercial and public space, particularly on Saturday and Sunday. Don’t even try; we will deal with you,” Mohamud said.
The police commander warned leaders affiliated with the Linda Mwananchi movement against inflammatory remarks and incitement, saying anyone found breaking the law would face legal action.
He added that both uniformed and plain-clothes officers would be deployed within the CBD and along routes leading to the rally venue to maintain order and manage traffic.
The deployment comes as the movement prepares to take its mobilisation campaign to Nairobi under the banner “Mwananchi Tour – Kanairo Edition,” a programme announced by Babu Owino.
According to the itinerary shared by the MP, the tour is expected to begin at All Saints Cathedral following the church service before proceeding to Marikiti and Gikomba markets, and later Burma Market.
The group is also scheduled to make stops at Stage 17, B Centre and Manyanja before proceeding along Jogoo Road and culminating at Jacaranda Grounds.
Police have urged organisers and supporters to maintain peace, adhere to the law and avoid actions that could disrupt business or threaten public safety.
