In anticipation of large-scale protests against the finance bill, security officers have closed off several key roads leading to Parliament buildings. They have shut down Parliament Road and City Hall Way, among others, to both vehicular traffic and pedestrian access as security measures intensify.
Police have used water cannons and lorries as barricades at key roundabouts leading to Parliament, fully restricting access to the area and allowing entry only to authorized personnel with proper identification.
Various civil society groups have organized the demonstrations, which have garnered massive support from youth across the country. To guard the area, a contingent of anti-riot police officers from all units has been deployed.
With the fate of the finance bill hanging in the balance, all eyes are on Parliament as legislators prepare to debate it. The bill includes amendments to taxation and public expenditure.
On Friday, organizers outlined a series of events leading up to today’s second round of Occupy Parliament demonstrations.
“Day 5, Tuesday, June, 25: #OccupyParliament. A national strike. Gen Z is granting all hard-working Kenyans a day off. Parents keep your children at home in solidarity,” they said.
On Wednesday, activist Boniface Mwangi announced plans to visit IPOA offices and the IG of Police to demand justice for Kanyeki. He stated that this visit will be followed by another round of demonstrations on Thursday, during which they will march to State House to express their dissent on the day the President is expected to sign the Bill.
On Monday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki issued warnings and demands to Kenyans planning to protest today.
“They must make sure that the enjoyment of these rights does not prejudice the rights and freedoms of others,” he said.
Kindiki said that protesters must remain peaceful and unarmed during the protests.
CS Kindiki added that demonstrators must engage without promoting violence or riots.
“They must not interfere with road rail, sea or air transport in any manner whatsoever. Whatever the demands, the issues, grievances or whatever the matter, the rule of law and public order must be maintained by all persons,” he said.
