Kithure Kindiki, the interior cabinet secretary, stated that the government does not forbid public protests as long as they adhere to the law.
This comes after President William Ruto warned the Azimio La Umoja coalition party, preparing to hold anti-government protests starting Wednesday. They both said that the government would not permit violent protests.
While the government respects the constitutional right to demonstrate, according to CS Kindiki's message on Twitter, it must adhere to the Constitution's restrictions, such as the allotted time and refrain from using violence.
All persons, including current and former political leaders and public office holders, have an obligation to follow the law. Retired office holders, including former Presidents, Governors, MPs or MCAs must allow their successors to execute their mandate and not resort to… pic.twitter.com/ERLRGCJUnK
— Kithure Kindiki (@KindikiKithure) July 16, 2023Did you read this?
The freedom of association and assembly and the right to protest, picket, and petition are all rights guaranteed by the Constitution, which the government respects and defends. The government does not prohibit public meetings and rallies. Following the public order laws, such rallies may be staged between 6 am and 6 pm. The CS warned that anyone attempting to spread disorder, undermine the economy, or engage in lawlessness will be handled severely and decisively following the law.
Prof. Kindiki also stated that anyone who breaks the law would face the appropriate consequences as the Azimio alliance plans protests against the high cost of living starting on Wednesday and lasting for three days straight.
"Anyone planning to cripple the economy, hurt innocent people, rob people blindly, or vandalize public property on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, not just in Nairobi, but throughout the 47 Counties, will be dealt with accordingly," he said.
The interior minister also warned previous government officials who were using unconventional methods to undermine their successors, including former president Uhuru Kenyatta, whom President William Ruto has openly charged with funding the anti-government protests.
"Everyone is responsible for upholding the law, including present and previous political leaders and officeholders. "Retired office holders, including former presidents, governors, members of parliament, or members of the national assembly, must allow their successors to carry out their mandate and not use blackmail, sabotage, or other unconventional methods to derail them," Kindiki stated.
