The National Police Service (NPS) has announced that the planned Azimio la Umoja protests set for Monday are unlawful.
Speaking during a press address on Sunday, Nairobi police commander Adamson Bungei noted that the coalition did not meet the threshold to receive a greenlight to hold the protests as their submissions were overdue.
Citing provisions given under Chapter 56 of the public order, 2012, commander Bungei stated that Azimio ought to have submitted their request at least three days prior.
“We received two requests from Azimio and Nairobi business community to hold protests tomorrow. One late in the evening and the other this morning. Both did not meet the legal threshold and were thus declined and the same was communicated to them in writing,” said Bungei.
Section 5 of the act stipulates that “Any person intending to convene a public meeting or a public procession shall notify the regulating officer of such intent at least three days but not more than fourteen days before the proposed date of the public meeting or procession.”
The Nairobi police boss however cautioned those who will participate in the protests against causing havoc and unrest, affirming that anyone found breaching the advisory will be dealt with as guided by the law.
He, therefore, urged the protestors to observe peace and calm while marching in the city as security officers will not be lenient in taking action against those who will not take heed of the advisory.
“Any person that will participate in the planned demonstration is notified to do so peacefully as guided in the constitution and any other supporting legal frameworks,” he said.
“We caution that any person that will break the law during the procession shall be dealt with decisively according to the law.”
He also allayed fears of unrest during the protest, affirming that all necessary security measures have been taken to protect businesses and the city folk.
“We wish to assure all Kenyans and persons of goodwill within the city of Nairobi that we have taken appropriate security measures to ensure public safety and freedom of movement come tomorrow,” he said.
“We are ready to secure their lives and property. Tomorrow is business as usual.”
