Police vow to protect Parliament, govt infrastructures as protests persist

Ascah Mwango 20th June, 2024 07:09 PM

The National Police Service (NPS) has condemned the ongoing protests against the Finance Bill 2024, pledging to protect Parliament and other key government infrastructure.

In a statement on Thursday, June 20, 2024, the NPS acknowledged the citizens’ right to protest under Article 37 of the Constitution but stressed that any attempts to disrupt government operations or occupy critical infrastructure would not be tolerated.

“The National Police Service is cognizant of the current demonstrations going on across the Country today June 20, 2024, and the ongoing debate at the National Assembly regarding Finance Bill, 2024. With utmost respect to the provisions of Article 37 of the Constitution stipulating the right of citizens to assemble, demonstrate and picket, the Service will neither condone nor approve efforts by demonstrators to either occupy critical government infrastructure including Parliament Buildings, or disrupt the ongoing Parliamentary proceedings,” the statement read in part.

“The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to maintain law and order; and protect life and property.”

Protests

Kenyans from various regions mobilized on Thursday, June 20, 2024, to protest against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

This marked the second day of protests within the week, aimed at urging Members of Parliament (MPs) to vote against the bill.

Demonstrations gathered strength in cities including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, and Nyeri, with participants demanding that the Kenya Kwanza government withdraw the bill entirely rather than make piecemeal amendments.

In Nairobi, residents began demonstrating as early as 6 am in the Central Business District and near Parliament, carrying placards with the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024.

Protests illegal?

On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, Nairobi’s regional police commander, Adamson Bungei, declared all protests in the city illegal, despite organizers asserting they had notified the authorities and were prepared for the demonstration.

Bungei said that no official permit applications for assembly or picketing had been received, making the planned protest unlawful.

“The notice submitted to Central is dated June 17, 2023, and it is inaccurate. We cannot approve it. No demonstrations will be allowed. Kenyans should be free to go about their business, and those with grievances should address them through the appropriate channels,” he stated.

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