Deputy Inspector General of Police Noor Gabow has reiterated that the Azimio la Umoja planned rally on Tuesday is unlawful.
In a statement on Monday, Gabow said the declaration was in the interest of national security.
"We wish to notify the public that the planned demonstration or assembly is unlawful and affirm our earlier unequivocal statements condemning violent protests and the public attacks on law enforcement officers on duty," Gabow said.
He said it is undisputed that Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya stipulates that every person has the right to peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions to public authorities.
"Notwithstanding, the Public Order Management Act, 2012 Part III regulates public gatherings by prohibiting offensive weapons at public meetings and processions," he said.
Gabow said the recent Azimio protests have been symptomatic and laced with unacceptable trend of criminal incidents.
He said this includes wanton destruction of property, arson, robbery, looting, injury to officers and even death of a police officer, a phenomenon that should not continue.
The deputy IG said since the beginning of Azimio protests, police officers have responded with utmost restraint despite the provocation by the protesters.
"We wish to reiterate our responsibility to maintain law and order; and enforce the law without fear or favour, strictly complying with the rule of law and respect for human rights," Gabow said.
Azimio leader Raila Odinga has vowed to go on with the planned demos despite a warning from the police and President William Ruto not to dare disrupt business in the Central Business District.
"Unless Mr Ruto wants to suspend the Constitution and rule by decree, we will exercise our right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions on Tuesday, may 2, 2023, as earlier announced, dark threats notwithstanding," Raila said in a statement on Sunday.
