Kindiki issues tough rules to protestors

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has warned against violation of rights and breach of public order ahead of today’s protests against the Finance Bill.

CS Kindiki said that the protesters must inform the police in advance of the protests and the routes they are likely to take for security arrangements.

All protesters have been directed to remain peaceful and unarmed, and not damage any property.

The protest must also end by 6.30 pm or sunset and they should not obstruct any roads or interfere with those who do not wish to take part in the protests.

A section of Kenyans has vowed to hold protests across the country against the Bill but Kindiki said the security agencies will not interfere with them as long as they conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.

He said that Kenyans have a right to demonstrate, however, they are limited by the law. “They must make sure that the enjoyment of these rights does not prejudice the rights and freedoms of others,” he said.

CS Kindiki added that demonstrators must engage without promoting violence or riots.

“They must not interfere with road rail, sea or air transport in any manner whatsoever. Whatever the demands, the issues, grievances or whatever the matter, the rule of law and public order must be maintained by all persons,” he said.

Rule of law

He added that non-protesters who hold a contrary view must also follow the law.

Kindiki, however, said that the rule of law must be followed at all times.

According the CS, Kenyans are free to exercise their constitutional rights and are free to demonstrate within the law.

The CS wants demonstrators not to breach public order, intimidate, harass or inconvenience other Kenyans.

He said that protesters must inform the police of their intention to demonstrate.

“Protesters must inform the police of the routes they will take for purposes of providing escort and ensuring that there is law and order. They should notify the police of the timings of their activities,” he said.

The protesters have also been directed not to provoke, injure or obstruct police and Kenyans.

Protected areas

Kindiki added that they should follow the police officers for protection and carry out the exercise in an orderly manner.

Those who will take part in the protests have been warned against accessing protected areas and vital installations.

Kindiki spoke as the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) called on the government to unconditionally set free all protestors who were arrested during last week’s 2024 Finance Bill demonstrations, terming it an abduction.

 According to KHRC, president William Ruto’s government abducted several young people who were protesting against high taxation, a move the organisation says is aimed at intimidating Kenyans from participating in future peaceful demonstrations.

 KHRC accused the police of using excessive to stop the protests, killing some of them including Rex Maasai 29, and Evans Kiratu, 21.

 The organisation called for immediate investigations into these killings demanding that those involved must face the full arm of the law.

 KHRC further noted that the government is particularly targeting vocal youth who have not shied away from criticising the bill.

 These abductions are said to mostly happen at night by police officers in civilian clothes and marked cars with the latest victims including Billy Simani, Austin Omondi, Lesley Muturi, and Shadrack Kiprono. 

 The Finance Bill 2024 which has rubbed many Kenyans the wrong way saw the youth organise peaceful demonstrations to reject it. Despite this, parliamentarians still passed the bill, with 204 Members of Parliament, out of 349 voting in favour of the bill.

 As mass protests are set to take place today, KHRC urged Kenyans not to be intimidated by the government but rather continue with their planned peaceful protests saying it is their constitutional right.

 The commission alleged that the government plans to shut down the internet today to stifle the youth-led protests.