This archive report was first published on 7 June 2020.
On Saturday night, police officers raided a house in Nairobi's Komarock Estate and arrested 15 people partying past curfew hours. The group had gathered to celebrate what they thought would be the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
However, President Kenyatta's speech extended the curfew and restrictions for another 30 days, citing the risk of loss of lives if the restrictions were lifted. The group, who had prepared to host a party, were found smoking bhang and flouting social distance rules.
According to eyewitnesses, the group pleaded with the officers who raided their backyard, claiming they were innocent. However, they were booked at Kayole Police Station and will be arraigned next week to face various charges.
President Kenyatta's speech was met with disappointment from many Kenyans, who had anticipated the relaxation of restrictions. In his address, he said, 'This is not about freedom, but a matter of lives. I saw you people send to me memes, but if we open it, our people will die.'
