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Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has been found in contempt over barricades erected during June protests.
The finding was made after police restrictions were imposed around Nairobi despite an existing court order.
Court Order at Centre of Case
Justice Patricia Nyaundi found Kanja personally responsible for ensuring compliance with the previous directives.
The order had required advance public notification before roadblocks or barricades were deployed during demonstrations.
The original conservatory order was issued in July 2025 by the High Court.
Its requirements were applicable during demonstrations marking the anniversary of the 2024 Finance Bill protests.
Several roads and entry points into Nairobi were subsequently blocked on June 25, 2026.
Areas affected reportedly included Uhuru Highway, Moi Avenue, Parliament Road and several suburban routes.
Kanja Ordered Back to Court
Kanja has been directed to appear before the High Court on September 22, 2026.
The appearance will allow mitigation submissions before the court determines the sentence for contempt.
Justice Nyaundi reportedly found insufficient evidence of measures taken to guarantee compliance.
Particular attention was given to the requirement for advance notification before barriers were erected.
The contempt proceedings followed a petition filed by Katiba Institute over police conduct.
The organisation challenged restrictions imposed on movement during the June 25 commemorative demonstrations.
Police Defence Rejected
Police had disputed claims that the Inspector General should personally bear responsibility for every barricade.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohammed Mohamud reportedly presented that position in the response.
It was argued that the roadblocks were not part of one centrally coordinated operation.
It was also maintained that the order did not completely prohibit security checkpoints or traffic diversions.
Those arguments were nevertheless not accepted as sufficient to establish compliance with the court order.
The judge instead focused on whether adequate steps had been taken to meet its requirements.
Nairobi Access Was Restricted
Multiple routes into Nairobi and the Central Business District were reportedly affected during the demonstrations.
Roysambu, Kangemi, Ngong Road, Karen, Kitengela, Ruiru and Githurai were among areas cited.
The restrictions were imposed as demonstrations were held to commemorate the 2024 Finance Bill protests.
The measures also affected attempts by some families to access Parliament and lay flowers.
Tear gas was reportedly used during the day’s security operations as arrests were also conducted.
A total of 355 people were reportedly arrested across the country during the demonstrations.
Sentencing Stage Awaits
The contempt finding now moves the proceedings into the mitigation and sentencing stage.
Kanja will therefore have an opportunity to address the court before a sentence is determined.
The case has placed renewed attention on police compliance with judicial orders during demonstrations.
It has also raised questions concerning public notification when movement restrictions are introduced.
The September 22 hearing will determine the next stage following the contempt finding.
Any sentence will be determined by the High Court after mitigation submissions have been considered.
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