As the nation braces for widespread demonstrations scheduled for tomorrow, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration has released an official advisory outlining a set of Do’s and Don’ts to guide protestors and ensure public order. The guidelines come amid heightened political tension and public mobilization across various parts of the country.
The poster, titled “DOs & DON’Ts During Demonstrations”, was shared on Tuesday through official government channels. It emphasizes the right to peaceful assembly while cautioning protestors against unlawful behavior that could endanger public safety or infringe on the rights of others.
Key Recommendations for Protestors
The Ministry encourages protestors to:
- Express their views peacefully, reaffirming the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression.
- Stay within the designated protest zones, a move intended to prevent traffic disruptions and ensure law enforcement can provide necessary oversight.
- Move in groups, promoting unity and safety in numbers while deterring potential criminal activity.
- Protest within legally allowed hours, likely referring to times approved under the Public Order Act.
These guidelines are crafted to facilitate a safe environment for both demonstrators and the general public while respecting the spirit of civic engagement.
Strict Warnings on Unlawful Conduct
On the flip side, the Ministry issued strong warnings against:
- Provoking the police, which could trigger confrontations and undermine the peaceful nature of the protests.
- Interfering with non-protestors, a reminder that demonstrations should not infringe upon the rights of others who choose not to participate.
- Damaging property or attempting to breach protected areas, both of which carry serious legal consequences.
- Spreading propaganda and carrying weapons, with authorities likely to interpret these as threats to national security and public order.
In its advisory, the Ministry underscores the importance of discipline and mutual respect during demonstrations.
Law enforcement agencies are reportedly on high alert, with extra officers deployed to monitor key areas in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and other protest hotspots. Protest organizers have been urged to cooperate with police and maintain clear communication to avoid unnecessary escalations.
While civil rights groups have welcomed the government’s clear communication, some have raised concerns over the interpretation of terms like “propaganda” and the potential for heavy-handed enforcement.
Nonetheless, with both the government and civic leaders calling for restraint and responsibility, many Kenyans hope tomorrow’s protests will serve as a powerful yet peaceful platform for voicing national concerns.
