IG Kanja Ordered to Appear Before Court for Sentencing

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has been found in contempt of court over roadblocks and barricades mounted across Nairobi during the June 25, 2026 Gen Z commemorative demonstrations.

High Court Justice Patricia Nyaundi found Kanja personally responsible for failing to ensure police complied with an order requiring members of the public to receive prior notice before roadblocks or barricades were erected.

She directed Kanja to appear before the High Court on September 22 for mitigation before sentencing.

Why Kanja Was Held in Contempt

The proceedings followed a contempt of court application filed by Katiba Institute on Friday, June 26, 2026, challenging the police roadblocks erected during the June 25 commemorations.

High Court had issued a conservatory order regulating the use of roadblocks and barricades during demonstrations. The order required police to give members of the public prior notice before blocking roads.

Also Read: Gachagua Warns Kenyans to Stay Away From June 25 Gen Z Protests

Despite the order, roads leading into Nairobi’s Central Business District were blocked on June 25 without the required notice.

Police had argued that the roadblocks and security checkpoints were reactive measures taken in response to events on the ground rather than measures forming part of a centrally coordinated plan.

What Happened on June 25

The roadblocks were mounted as Gen Z protesters, families and other Kenyans gathered in Nairobi to commemorate victims of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.

June 25, 2026 marked two years since the protests began over the Finance Bill before developing into a wider movement. The commemorations included the laying of flowers in remembrance of those who died during the protests.

Police deployed heavily across Nairobi ahead of the gatherings, blocking several routes into the CBD. The measures disrupted transport, leaving some commuters stranded and restricting access to parts of the city centre.

Also Read: Mass Protests Erupt in Nairobi CBD as Traders Take on KRA

Police officials defended the deployment, saying the measures were intended to protect people and property while preventing criminal elements from infiltrating the demonstrations.

Following the contempt ruling, Kanja was ordered to return to the High Court on September 22 for mitigation before sentencing.

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A collage of Inspector General Douglas Kanja and 2024 Gen Z protests. PHOTO/NPS/CPR