The National Police Service has said it is not aware of any officially planned Saba Saba protests, maintaining that no formal notification has been submitted by organizers as required under Kenyan law.
Speaking ahead of the annual Saba Saba commemorations, police officials stated that they had not received any official communication from individuals or groups intending to hold public demonstrations.
They emphasized that organizers of public assemblies, processions, or demonstrations are legally required to notify the police in advance to allow adequate security and logistical planning.
According to the police, the notification requirement is provided for under the Public Order Act and is intended to help authorities coordinate security arrangements, manage traffic, protect participants, and ensure the safety of the general public.
Officials stressed that the process is not designed to deny citizens their constitutional right to assemble peacefully but rather to facilitate the orderly conduct of public gatherings.
"The law requires organizers of public processions and demonstrations to notify the police in advance. As of now, we have not received any formal notification regarding planned Saba Saba protests," a police official said.
The statement comes amid widespread discussions on social media, where various groups and individuals have called for demonstrations to mark Saba Saba Day.
Despite the online campaigns, police insist that no recognized organizers have complied with the legal notification process.
Saba Saba, observed every year on July 7, is a significant date in Kenya's political history. The day commemorates the pro-democracy movement that pushed for the reintroduction of multiparty democracy in the early 1990s.
Over the years, it has evolved into an occasion when Kenyans gather to express concerns about governance, economic challenges, corruption, unemployment, and the cost of living.
In recent years, the annual commemoration has often been accompanied by peaceful demonstrations as well as isolated incidents of unrest in some parts of the country.
Security agencies have therefore urged the public to remain peaceful and avoid actions that could lead to violence or destruction of property.
Police warned that while peaceful protests are protected under the Constitution, criminal activities such as vandalism, looting, blocking major highways, or attacking law enforcement officers would not be tolerated.
They assured the public that officers have been deployed across key areas to maintain law and order and to respond to any security concerns that may arise.
Officials also appealed to motorists, business owners, and commuters to remain alert and cooperate with security personnel should demonstrations occur. They urged the public to obtain information from credible sources and avoid spreading misinformation that could create unnecessary panic.
Legal experts have repeatedly clarified that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions peacefully and unarmed.
However, they note that organizers are expected to notify the police in advance so that authorities can prepare for the event.
Courts have previously ruled that notification should not be interpreted as seeking permission, but rather as a means of enabling effective security planning.
Human rights organizations have also called on both demonstrators and police officers to respect the law during any public gatherings.
They have urged protesters to conduct themselves peacefully while encouraging security agencies to exercise restraint and uphold constitutional freedoms when policing demonstrations.
Meanwhile, several businesses in major towns have expressed concern over the possibility of disruptions if protests take place.
Some traders have indicated they may adjust operating hours or temporarily close their premises as a precaution, while transport operators are closely monitoring the situation for possible road closures or traffic disruptions.
Political leaders have continued to issue appeals for calm, urging Kenyans to exercise their democratic rights responsibly while avoiding actions that could threaten public safety or national stability.
Many have encouraged dialogue as the most effective way of resolving national concerns and addressing citizens' grievances.
As the country marks another Saba Saba anniversary, uncertainty remains over whether demonstrations will proceed despite the absence of official notification to the police.
Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property while safeguarding the constitutional rights of all Kenyans.
They have urged anyone planning public gatherings to comply with the law, cooperate with security officers, and ensure that any demonstrations remain peaceful and orderly.