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Today (25 June 2024), Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki issued instructions to protesters ahead of the planned #rejectfinancebill2024 demonstration.
In his speech on Monday evening, Kindiki affirmed that Kenyans have the constitutional right to peacefully assemble, demonstrate, protest and submit petitions to the authorities.
However, Kindiki stressed that protesters should not infringe on the rights and freedoms of others when exercising their rights under Article 37.
Those exercising their Article 37 right to assemble and protest must act within the confines of the Constitution and the law,” he said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that protesters must remain peaceful and not carry weapons during rallies, pickets and petitions.
He stressed that Article 37 protected the right to demonstrate, not the right to incite violence or riot.
“Protesters’ actions must not disrupt public order or cause harm or inconvenience to members of the public not participating in the protest.” He added.
Kindiki outlined that protesters must notify police of their intention to protest, including specifying the route and timing of their activity.
“Under the Public Order Act, Chapter 57 of the Laws of Kenya, they must end their activities by sunset or 6:30pm, whichever is earlier.” He specifically pointed out.
Furthermore, CS Kindiki warned that protesters must not provoke, attack, obstruct law enforcement officers or the public.
He instructed protesters to follow police guidance and safety measures, protect themselves from non-protesters and maintain orderly behavior.
“They shall not obstruct, damage, obstruct or damage any private or public property.” He concluded.
Kindiki stressed that protesters must abide by Kenyan laws, including the Protected Areas Act, which restricts access to critical infrastructure for national security reasons.
He said police would direct protesters to areas the law prohibits them from entering.
“They may not access critical assets in a manner that could interfere with the public’s enjoyment of electricity, water or other social amenities.” Kindiki warned.
In addition, he warned protesters not to disrupt the private activities of non-protesters and road, rail, port or air transport.
Kindiki stressed that no matter what problems or grievances exist, it is very important to uphold the rule of law and maintain public order.
“For the avoidance of doubt, non-protesters and other members of the public who hold views contrary to those of the protesters are subject to the same restrictions. They must exercise their right to object in the same manner and under the same circumstances,” He added.
The Minister assured that national security agencies would enforce the law impartially but firmly.
“Any form of illegal behavior will not be tolerated.” He said affirmatively.
Kindiki noted that previous protests had been exploited to damage property and disrupt other people’s activities.
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