Kenya’s opposition has vowed to continue with planned protests on Monday, despite police warnings that they will step up crackdowns on what they consider illegal protests.
Protests began last week and quickly turned violent in several opposition strongholds.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga said they would be held every Monday and Thursday to mobilize the country against rising living costs and alleged electoral malpractices.
However, the police chief, Japhet Koome, stated on Sunday that “he had not approved of any demonstrations” and warned of mass arrests.
Protests in Kenya are not required by law to be approved by the police.
“We’ve been controlling ourselves. That is no longer an option. We must come out as the police force to maintain law and order. That is the message to everyone “Mr. Koome told reporters.
Mr. Odinga insisted on Sunday that the protests are legal.
“We have served a protest notice on the police, as required by our laws. We do not want anarchy to reign in our country, but we are fighting for our rights. Kenyans have the right to peacefully demonstrate “He stated.
