Activists are gearing up for protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District on Tuesday to oppose the proposed Finance Bill, 2024.
Dubbed “Occupy Parliament,” the demonstration is set to coincide with the tabling of the Bill in the National Assembly.
One of the organizers, Boniface Mwangi, announced that Kenyans from various parts of the country would gather at several locations around the city before marching to Parliament.
The designated assembly points include Ambassadeur/Archives, Nation Centre, Supreme Court, Skate Park, Taifa Road, Kencom Stage, and City Hall Way.
The planned protests reflect growing discontent among citizens regarding the proposed financial policies, with organizers urging widespread participation to make their voices heard.
“Come early to town, and just walk around, see what’s happening,” he said on Facebook.
The protests start at 11 am with Harambee Avenue being the main route.
“Wear black, carry a whistle/vuvuzela, a placard with a message to your MP, and drinking water,” he said.
Boniface Mwangi reported that the police have assured protesters that their right to demonstrate will be respected and that law enforcement will be present to maintain peace and provide escort during the protest.
On Monday, multi-agency teams held strategic meetings to prepare for handling the planned demonstration outside Parliament in Nairobi, aimed at opposing the Finance Bill, 2024. The voting on the Bill is scheduled for Thursday, June 20.
There are concerns among the authorities that protesters might attempt to block Members of Parliament from entering the House. As a precaution, police announced that anti-riot teams would be deployed.
Mwangi urged demonstrators to remain calm, even if harassed, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest. “You are an ambassador of peace,” he stated, encouraging participants to conduct themselves with composure and dignity.
“No alcohol or pre-drinking. No violence, No weapons, No destruction of violence. The march to Parliament is a peaceful event,” he said.
He asked protestors not to use threatening or abusive words towards people close to the march.
“Beware of agent provocateurs. They may be enlisted by politicians or their surrogates to incite people or do things that may cause a breach of peace. Alert police if you notice suspicious behaviour,” he said.
