Opposition leaders and angry Kenyans planning protests over rising fuel prices could face resistance after police on Friday banned all demonstrations in Nairobi.

The announcement is a setback for Opposition leaders led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his Wiper Party counterpart Kalonzo Musyoka, who had pledged countrywide protests against President William Ruto’s administration if fuel prices were not reduced within seven days.

Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud issued a stern warning to Kenyans and any groups planning what he termed “illegal” protests in the Central Business District (CBD) ahead of demonstrations scheduled for Tuesday, April 21.

The new city police boss noted that while the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, all demonstrations must strictly comply with the law.

He also clarified that police had not received formal notification from the protest organisers, a mandatory requirement before any peaceful gathering within the city.

He called on organisers to engage police in advance to ensure proper coordination and security arrangements.

The warning comes amid reports of planned demonstrations next week Tuesday over recent fuel price hikes and the rising cost of living affecting many Kenyans.

Many Kenyans argue that the increasing cost of living has become unbearable, with transport, food and basic commodities becoming increasingly unaffordable.

Despite the warning, a section of defiant Kenyans insisted the protests would go ahead as planned, arguing that the urgency of the economic situation demands action.

Opposition leaders and supporters have accused the Ruto administration of attempting to suppress dissent, insisting that Kenyans have a right to express their grievances.

Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi on April 15, 2026, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua called on President Ruto to instruct National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to convene an urgent special sitting within seven days to address the fuel crisis.

Gachagua also called for the abolition of the National Infrastructure Fund, recently approved by the National Assembly and intended to be financed through the sale of government assets.

He proposed that proceeds from the sale of government assets instead be used to cushion Kenyans from what he termed a historic fuel price increase.

In response, President Ruto criticised the opposition, questioning the effectiveness of such demonstrations.

Addressing a rally in Suneka, Kisii County, the Head of State urged Kenyans to adopt a more practical approach to the issue instead of resorting to mass action.