Kenya's National Police Service (NPS) has warned politicians, rally organisers and other individuals against incitement, provocation and actions likely to disrupt peace and public order amid rising political tensions.
The warning follows the arrest of 15 suspects along the Kisumu-Kericho Road on Saturday, August 15, during an intelligence-led operation.
Police said the suspects were found in possession of crude weapons, with preliminary investigations suggesting they may have been hired to disrupt political activities in the area.
NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the Service would take firm action against anyone found engaging in activities that threaten public safety and order.
“The National Police Service warns politicians, organisers, and all other individuals against incitement, provocation, or any conduct likely to breach the peace. Offenders will face the full force of the law.”
The suspects remain in custody pending arraignment as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding their alleged presence along the Kisumu-Kericho Road.
At the same time, the NPS has directed officers deployed to political rallies and other public gatherings to maintain law and order while exercising professionalism, impartiality and restraint.
The Service said officers must protect the constitutional right to peaceful assembly while taking steps to prevent violence, disorder and other unlawful activities.
“They must facilitate the right to peaceful assembly while ensuring public order and safety, and remain strictly guided by the Standard Operating Procedures.” Nyaga stressed in a statement on Sunday.
The police directive comes amid heightened political tensions in Homa Bay County, where roads leading into and out of Homa Bay Town were reportedly barricaded with large stones ahead of a planned Linda Mwananchi political rally.
Videos circulating on social media showed sections of major roads blocked, raising concerns over the safety of political leaders, supporters and other members of the public expected to attend the political gathering.
The developments have increased pressure on security agencies to prevent political disagreements from escalating into violence while allowing legitimate political activities to proceed.
The NPS warned that it would take firm action against individuals found facilitating violence, disorder or other unlawful conduct.
“Any individual found to be facilitating violence, disorder, or unlawful activity will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law, without exception,” the Service said.
The warning comes alongside assurances from Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo that the government would protect Kenyans exercising their constitutional rights to assemble and participate in political activities.
However, Omollo also cautioned political actors and their supporters to respect the law and maintain peace while exercising those freedoms.
The NPS reiterated that it remains non-partisan and would conduct its duties in accordance with the Constitution, the National Police Service Act and the rule of law.
“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to maintaining public order and protecting every citizen’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly,” the Service highlighted.
The police warning comes as political mobilisation intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, with security agencies facing the challenge of protecting political freedoms while preventing violence and disruption during public gatherings.