High Court Pardons IG Kanja Over Police Roadblocks, Issues Warning

The High Court has discharged Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja from punishment after finding him in contempt over police roadblocks and barricades mounted during demonstrations in Nairobi on June 25, 2026.

Justice Patricia Nyaundi, while delivering the ruling, warned that the court could impose a custodial sentence if similar violations occur in the future.

The contempt proceedings arose from police roadblocks mounted during demonstrations marking the anniversary of the June 25 protests. The court had previously directed the National Police Service to issue timely public notice before emergency roadblocks or barricades were erected.

Court Accepts Kanja’s Assurance

The judge noted that Kanja had personally appeared before the court alongside senior police officers and had assured the court that the relevant order would be respected going forward.

Based on his appearance, acknowledgment of the court's concerns and undertaking to ensure compliance, Justice Nyaundi opted to pardon him rather than impose a custodial sentence.

The court nevertheless made clear that the decision should not be interpreted as permission for similar conduct in the future.

Warning of Possible Jail Term

Justice Nyaundi warned that any subsequent violation of the court order could result in a custodial sentence against the Inspector General.

The court also noted that Kanja had demonstrated how the order would be implemented by the National Police Service and had emphasised to his officers the requirement to obey court orders.

The ruling therefore places responsibility on the police leadership to ensure that officers under its command comply with binding judicial orders.

Court Highlights Freedom of Movement

The contempt proceedings were linked to concerns over citizens' freedom of movement during the June 25 demonstrations.

In an earlier ruling, the High Court found Kanja personally responsible for failing to ensure compliance with the requirement for public notification before police barricaded roads. The court said sudden and unexplained barriers could interfere with citizens' ability to move freely.

The court further emphasised that internal police operational procedures cannot override a valid court order.

The earlier order originated from proceedings brought by Katiba Institute, which challenged restrictions on access to Nairobi during demonstrations.

Police Must Comply With Court Order

The latest ruling directs the National Police Service to continue respecting the order governing emergency roadblocks and barricades.

The court stressed that there should be no recurrence of the conduct that led to the contempt proceedings.

The judge also indicated that a detailed ruling would address the responsibilities of the National Police Service in safeguarding the rule of law and ensuring compliance with constitutional standards.

Background to the Case

Police mounted roadblocks at several locations in and around Nairobi during the June 25 demonstrations.

Katiba Institute subsequently moved to court, arguing that the police action breached an existing High Court order requiring timely public notification before emergency road closures or barricades.

The police, through their legal representatives, maintained that the measures were security responses to circumstances developing on the ground.

The High Court ultimately found that Kanja had failed to demonstrate sufficient measures to ensure compliance with the court's notification requirement and held him in contempt.

Following Monday's decision, Kanja has been spared a custodial sentence but remains under a clear judicial warning that future non-compliance could attract more severe consequences.

The ruling places renewed emphasis on the relationship between police operational responsibilities, citizens' constitutional rights and the obligation of public institutions to comply with court orders.