By Ken Muthomi - Reporter
Kenya, 6 July 2026 - The National Police Service has announced enhanced police checkpoints on various roads across Nairobi CBD, ahead of the planned sabasaba demonstrations.
In a statement on Monday, the service said that the checkpoints will control human and vehicle movement in and out of Nairobi CBD, which is usually the epicentre of anti-government demonstrations.
The police have noted that any individual who shall be caught contravening directives from the police shall be met with the full force of the law.
NPS wishes to inform all members of the public that, in light of past experience during the Sabasaba commemoration, which is usually observed on 7 July, some members of the public have caused breaches of the peace, thereby interfering with the normal conduct of business for those not participating in the demonstrations.
“Members of the public are urged to obey and cooperate with the National Police Service to ensure that peace and order prevail. Any unlawful acts shall be met with the full force of the law,” it added.
Saba Saba demonstrations are historic and contemporary Kenyan protests held annually on July 7 to commemorate the struggle for multi-party democracy and to demand government accountability.
Since 2024, Since 2024, Kenyan Youths have used this day to stage demonstrations calling for greater government accountability, transparency, and improved governance in President William Ruto’s administration.
However, in a press conference on Monday, Nairobi Regional Commander Issa Mohamud branded the planned demonstrations as illegal and said that the police will be at the forefront to prevent the disruption of activities in the city.
According to Mohamud, police have not yet received any formal notification from organisers, which is a legal requirement before any demonstration.
"We have held meetings with commanders from Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado and Nairobi because we face common challenges during protests. We have seen reports on social media about the planned Saba Saba demonstrations tomorrow, but we have never been notified, which is a legal requirement," Mohamud said.
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