Deputy Inspector General of Police Noor Gabow has reiterated that the Azimio la Umoja rally planned for Tuesday is unlawful.
Gabow stated in a statement on Monday that the declaration was made in the interest of national security.
“We wish to notify the public that the planned demonstration or assembly is unlawful and affirm our earlier unequivocal statements condemning violent protests and the public attacks on law enforcement officers on duty,” Gabow said.
He stated unequivocally that Article 37 of Kenya’s Constitution states that everyone has the right to peacefully and unarmedly assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities.
“Notwithstanding, the Public Order Management Act, 2012 Part III regulates public gatherings by prohibiting offensive weapons at public meetings and processions,” he said.
According to Gabow, the recent Azimio protests were symptomatic and laced with an unacceptable trend of criminal incidents.
He stated that this includes willful destruction of property, arson, robbery, looting, injury to officers, and even the death of a police officer, all of which should not be tolerated.
According to the deputy IG, police officers have responded with utmost restraint since the start of the Azimio protests, despite the protesters’ provocation.
“We wish to reiterate our responsibility to maintain law and order; and enforce the law without fear or favour, strictly complying with the rule of law and respect for human rights,” Gabow said.
Despite police and President William Ruto’s warnings not to disrupt business in the Central Business District, Azimio leader Raila Odinga has vowed to continue with the planned demonstrations.
“Unless Mr Ruto wants to suspend the Constitution and rule by decree, we will exercise our right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions on Tuesday, may 2, 2023, as earlier announced, dark threats notwithstanding,” Raila said in a statement on Sunday.
