Kenyan police have banned protests in the centre of the capital, Nairobi, and surrounding areas “until further notice”, citing their leaderless nature that has made it difficult to enforce safety.

It comes after a month of anti-government protests in which scores of people have been killed. More protests are planned for Thursday.

Nairobi city centre has been the heart of the youth-led protests, which have also taken place across the country.

The protests began against unpopular tax rises but after they were withdrawn have broadened out, including demands for President William Ruto to resign.

Online posters calling for people to gather on Thursday at Uhuru Park in the city centre, before matching to State House, the president’s official residence.

Late on Wednesday, the police said, “no demonstrations will be permitted in the Nairobi Central Business District and its surroundings until further notice to ensure public safety”.