NPS Issues Strict Rally Rules Ahead of High-Stakes Linda Mwananchi Event in Kisumu
Kenya’s National Police Service (NPS) has set out a series of stringent requirements for organisers of public rallies, just days before a high-profile political mobilisation by the Linda Mwananchi movement in Kisumu.
In a statement released on Friday, April 24, the police service reaffirmed its constitutional duty to maintain law and order while safeguarding citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly. However, it warned that such freedoms would only be upheld within the strict confines of the law.
The NPS emphasised that all public gatherings must comply with the provisions of Article 24 of the Constitution, which allows for the limitation of rights and freedoms in the interest of public safety, order, and the rights of others.
Among the key directives, organisers are required to notify a regulating officer at least three days before the intended event, but not more than 14 days in advance.
“A notice to hold such meetings or processions must be submitted to the regulating officer at least three days before such a meeting but not more than 14 days before the proposed date,” the statement read.
Additionally, all rallies and processions must take place strictly between 6am and 6pm. Organisers are also required to provide their full names, physical addresses, and clearly outline the proposed venue or procession route.
The police further stressed that those convening such gatherings would be held accountable for the conduct of participants, warning that any breach of public order laws could attract legal consequences.
“The Public Order Act Cap. 56(5) provides the conditions that must be met before holding a public meeting or a public procession,” the NPS added.
The directive comes amid heightened political activity, as the Linda Mwananchi movement, spearheaded by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, gears up for a major weekend of rallies in the Nyanza region.
The movement is set to begin its engagements in Vihiga on Saturday, April 25, before culminating in a major rally at Owuor Grounds in Kisumu on Sunday, April 26.
A host of influential leaders are expected to attend, including Kisumu Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, and Senators Godfrey Osotsi and Richard Onyonka.
The rallies are part of a broader wave of political mobilisation across the country, with leaders increasingly turning to grassroots campaigns to consolidate support and push governance agendas.
Observers say the NPS directive signals growing concern within security agencies over the scale and intensity of political gatherings, particularly as the country edges closer to a heated political season.
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