NPS Issues Fresh Directives on Political Rallies Ahead of 2027 Elections, Warns Goons

The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern warning to political actors ahead of the 2027 General Election, cautioning against political intolerance, the use of criminal gangs and disruption of rival gatherings.

In a statement released on Saturday, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the Service would strictly enforce the Public Order Act, Cap—56, across the political divide.

“No person, regardless of social status, political bias, or public office, is above the law,” Nyaga said.

He warned that those who sponsor criminal gangs, incite supporters or disrupt lawful meetings would face action in accordance with the law.

What Organizers Must Do Before Holding Rallies

Political organizers are required to notify the officer in charge of the police station in the area before holding a public meeting or procession.

Under Section 5 of the Public Order Act, notification must be made at least three days and not more than 14 days before the planned event.

Also Read: Murkomen Responds to Reports of Shadow Police Groups Not Commanded by IG Kanja

Organizers must provide their full names and physical addresses, the proposed venue or procession route, and the date and time of the gathering with public meetings and processions to be held between 6am and 6pm.

NPS said receiving advance notification helps officers plan security coverage and prepare for possible threats around planned gatherings.

“It is worth appreciating that a notification and subsequent confirmation of all intended meetings by actors across the political divide to the authorised officer serve as a proper and legitimate step in enabling the police to carry out effective and informed security coverage,” the Service said.

Where another event has already been notified for the same date, time and venue, the regulating officer must inform the organizer that the meeting cannot proceed as proposed.

NPS Warns Against Disrupting Rival Meetings

NPS said the reminder comes amid increased political activity and reports of intolerance, violence and disruption of public meetings in different parts of the country.

In August, police arrested dozens of suspects following violence during a Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has also warned political leaders against mobilizing groups to disrupt rival meetings, calling for preventive action against those planning violence.

NPS urged political leaders and their supporters to respect other groups holding lawful meetings and avoid actions that could trigger conflict.

The Service said it would facilitate peaceful political activities while taking action against conduct that violates the law.

Also Read: IG Kanja Reveals Why Police Might Use Live Ammunition During Protests

Police Reaffirm Neutrality Ahead of 2027

The latest warning comes as security agencies step up preparations for the 2027 General Election.

Inspector General Douglas Kanja recently said NPS would work with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and other stakeholders on election security.

Kanja has also emphasized the need for police to treat all participants in the electoral process equally, regardless of their political affiliation.

NPS said its operations would remain guided by the Constitution, human rights, accountability and the rule of law.

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NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga. PHOTO/ NPS