Nairobi Police Commander George Seda has issued a stern directive prohibiting the use of face masks by both police officers and demonstrators during protests in the capital, citing concerns over accountability and public safety.
Speaking ahead of anticipated demonstrations in Nairobi, Seda emphasised that law enforcement will rely solely on full riot gear and rubber bullets, explicitly ruling out the use of live ammunition.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following recent protests that have sparked debates over police conduct and protester rights in Kenya.
“We discourage police officers from wearing face masks during riots. Face masks are not allowed in riots,” Seda declared during a press briefing at the Nairobi Area Police Headquarters.
He argued that masks obscure identities, complicating efforts to hold officers accountable for their actions.
Similarly, he urged demonstrators to refrain from wearing face masks, stating that such measures could hinder identification and escalate tensions.
Seda’s directive aims to promote transparency during public gatherings, though it has already drawn criticism from civil rights groups who argue it infringes on personal freedoms.
Addressing the tools available to police for managing protests, Seda clarified, “Our tools for work for the demonstrators are purely full riot gear; no ammunition we are supposed to have except that of the rubber bullets, which could cause more injuries at close range.”
He emphasised that rubber bullets, while non-lethal, are intended for use at a safe distance to minimise harm. The statement follows reports of injuries during past protests, with critics alleging excessive force by law enforcement.
— KENYA GOSSIP HUB (@kenyasgossips) June 18, 2025
Seda’s remarks signal an effort to balance crowd control with public safety, though questions remain about the enforcement of these guidelines.
Seda’s comments reflect a broader push to regulate protest management amid growing scrutiny of police tactics.
The Nairobi Regional Police Commander, George Seda, has assured Kenyans of adequate security during the upcoming June 25 demonstrations to mark the first anniversary of the 2024 Occupy Parliament protests.
Meanwhile, protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations over Ojwang’s death as well as the change of regime, also demanding clarity on how police will adhere to these stated protocols.
"Our tools for work for the demonstrators is purely full riot gear, no ammunition we are supposed to have except that of the rubber bullets which could cause more injured on close range!"~Nairobi Police boss George Seda pic.twitter.com/fS0EB7MmNY
— KENYA GOSSIP HUB (@kenyasgossips) June 18, 2025
