Cabinet Secretary nominee Kithure Kindiki informed Parliament on Thursday that if reappointed to the Interior Ministry, he would establish designated areas for Kenyans to protest.
During his vetting, Kindiki revealed that before President William Ruto dissolved his Cabinet on July 11, he had completed draft regulations for the Public Order Act following nationwide anti-government protests.
Kindiki stated that the draft regulations would guide police in managing demonstrations, ensuring protesters do not disrupt public order. These regulations would also designate areas near public institutions where protesters could assemble to demonstrate or present petitions. Additionally, protest organizers must inform the police about the expected number of participants.
Kindiki argued that these measures would prevent the deaths and property damage witnessed during recent demonstrations.
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He responded to a question from National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who blamed the Interior Ministry for not designating specific "picketing corners," leading to confrontations between police and protesters. Ichung’wah noted that many Kenyans mistakenly believe they can protest anywhere, including restricted areas.
Protests have continued since President Ruto introduced the controversial 2024 Finance Bill, with demonstrators calling for government reforms and some demanding Ruto’s resignation. The protests, primarily organized via social media, have seen youth mobilize for marches to key locations like Nairobi city center, Parliament buildings, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The police have faced criticism for using excessive force and violence against demonstrators, including opening fire on unarmed protesters, making forceful arrests, and abducting vocal personalities.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has confirmed that over 60 people have been killed since the protests began, highlighting the urgent need for regulated protest areas and better crowd management to ensure public safety.
