Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured Kenyans that the planned demonstrations on June 25 will proceed under the protection of security agencies, while warning that the government will take firm action against individuals seeking to exploit the protests to cause violence and destruction.
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| Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen earlier at a public baraza in Angata Barikoi where cases of insecurity have been reported (Photo Courtesy) |
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Murkomen emphasized that Thursday will remain a normal working and school day across the country, even as citizens exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and demonstration.
The Interior CS noted that the government fully respects Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees every Kenyan the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions peacefully and without weapons. He said the police had received notifications from groups intending to hold demonstrations and would provide security as required by law.
"The Government respects the constitutional rights of all Kenyans to peacefully assemble for whatever reason, on any day," Murkomen stated.
He urged organizers and participants to ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful, adding that police officers had been instructed to facilitate and protect peaceful protesters as well as members of the public conducting their daily activities.
However, Murkomen expressed concern over intelligence reports indicating that some political actors were allegedly planning to infiltrate the demonstrations with criminal elements, including gangs and goons, with the intention of causing chaos, looting businesses and attacking innocent citizens.
According to the CS, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is already investigating individuals suspected of mobilizing and financing violent activities ahead of the demonstrations. He warned that anyone found culpable would face the full force of the law.
"The Government will deal decisively, and in accordance with the law, with any individuals or groups seeking to exploit legitimate protests to cause chaos, engage in looting, destroy property, disrupt businesses, or commit any other criminal acts," he said.
Murkomen further assured the public that security agencies would do everything within the law to protect peaceful demonstrators and safeguard property and businesses during the protests.
The CS also appealed to protesters to distance themselves from any criminal elements who may attempt to infiltrate demonstrations, saying this would make it easier for law enforcement officers to maintain order and ensure public safety.
Addressing allegations that state agencies work with criminal gangs, Murkomen dismissed the claims and maintained that the government does not condone or collaborate with goons. He stated that police officers had been instructed to deal firmly with all criminals without fear or favour.
Murkomen concluded by calling on Kenyans to cooperate with law enforcement officers and uphold peace, order and constitutional values as the country marks the anniversary of the June 25 protests.
"Together, let us always uphold peace, order, and the constitutional values that bind us as a nation," he said.
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