Kenyan Police Ban Protests Amidst Leadership Crisis and Brutality Allegations

Police in Kenya on Thursday have banned protests in the capital indefinitely, citing a lack of leadership to ensure peaceful demonstrations.

The ban was announced hours before a scheduled protest demanding President Ruto's resignation over poor governance. Acting police inspector general, Douglas Kanja, stated that the leadership void has complicated enforcement of safety protocols. Previous protests have led to significant business losses from looting and arson.

While no protesters were spotted early Thursday, major roads to the president's office were heavily barricaded by police. Kenya has experienced a month-long wave of protests initially opposing a controversial finance bill proposing higher taxes amidst a cost-of-living crisis. According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, at least 50 people have died since the protests began on June 18.

(With inputs from agencies.)