Nairobi, July 16, 2024 – The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a press statement regarding planned public demonstrations set to take place today, organized by young Kenyans, popularly known as Gen Z. The demonstrations are in exercise of their constitutional right to peacefully assemble, picket, and demonstrate, as enshrined in Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution.
The press statement, released by the office of the Acting Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja Kirocho, acknowledges the fundamental right of citizens to demonstrate. However, it also raises concerns about the potential for violence and disruption, citing past incidents where similar protests have resulted in tragic loss of lives, injuries, and destruction of property. The NPS highlighted the negative impact such events have had on families and businesses, leading to significant suffering and economic disruption.
In a sobering note, the NPS revealed that they have received credible intelligence indicating that criminal groups plan to infiltrate the demonstrations. These groups, according to the intelligence reports, aim to disrupt and destabilize the peaceful nature of the protests, posing a threat to public safety.
“The National Police Service’s mission is to uphold the rule of law, serve and protect the public, maintain law and order, and ensure that every Kenyan enjoys their constitutional rights,” the statement read. The NPS emphasized its commitment to these principles, while also urging demonstrators to remain peaceful and vigilant.
The Acting Inspector General called for demonstrators to collaborate, cooperate, and coordinate with the police to ensure the safety and security of all participants. He stressed the importance of maintaining peace during the demonstrations to avoid the negative consequences witnessed in previous protests.
“While you demonstrate, we urge you to remain peaceful and vigilant. Please collaborate, cooperate, and coordinate with the police to ensure your safety and our collective security as Kenyans is guaranteed during the event,” the statement urged.
The NPS assured the public that they are prepared to facilitate the demonstrations in a manner that upholds the law and protects the rights of the demonstrators while ensuring the safety of the wider public. The police service has deployed officers to monitor the protests and respond to any incidents of violence or criminal activity swiftly and effectively.
The statement concluded with a prayer for the safety and well-being of all Kenyans and the country. “May God bless you, and may God bless our country Kenya,” said Acting Inspector General Kirocho.
This call for peace and cooperation comes at a critical time when the country is grappling with economic challenges and social unrest. The NPS’s proactive stance aims to strike a balance between respecting the constitutional rights of the demonstrators and maintaining public order and safety.
As the demonstrations unfold, the eyes of the nation will be on both the protestors and the police, hoping for a peaceful expression of dissent and a demonstration of effective law enforcement. The success of these protests in remaining peaceful could set a precedent for future demonstrations in Kenya, reinforcing the democratic principles upon which the nation stands.
The NPS’s emphasis on peaceful protests and collaboration with law enforcement highlights the importance of unity and cooperation in addressing the country’s challenges. The outcome of today’s demonstrations will be a significant indicator of Kenya’s ability to navigate its socio-political landscape peacefully and constructively.
