Kathiani Member of Parliament (MP) Robert Mbui has faulted the government for using intimidation tactics to cripple the planned Saba Saba protests.
According to the legislator, the State is using the police to assert dominance over citizens while also showing confusion among Cabinet leaders.
“It’s a way of intimidating the general population. The police setting up roadblocks is a way of intimidating and trying to show that they have power,” he told Citizen TV on Monday.
“This regime keeps on shooting itself in the foot. Today’s plan is also surprising the Minister of Public Service says everyone should report to work and then the Interior CS blocks the roads then you wonder what exactly is this regime up to?”
All roads leading to the capital were barricaded as early as 4 am, and many motorists were forced to camp at the premises or turn back.
Citizens heading to work were forced to walk kilometres to their workplaces as public transport also remained paralysed.
The major disruption has sparked harsh ridicule against the State over the ill-informed action, questioning the will to uphold the law.
This lies against a backdrop of a controversial Public Order (Amendment) Bill sponsored by Nairobi Woman representative Esther Passaris, which proposes limitations on the premises of holding protests.
The Bill seemed to receive a warm reception among legislators as some argued it contravenes the laws on the right to protest.
Kenyan youth have maintained a protest streak since mid-June, calling for better governance and condemning police brutality.
