The Azimio la Umoja coalition has strongly condemned the ongoing police harassment of demonstrators, calling for an immediate end to such actions. This demand comes in the wake of stringent orders issued by Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination, Kithure Kindiki, aimed at maintaining public order during protests.
Azimio la Umoja, a major political coalition in Kenya, expressed its unwavering solidarity with the demonstrators, lauding them for their peaceful exercise of the constitutional rights to assembly, demonstration, and picketing. In a statement, the coalition emphasized the importance of these fundamental rights in a democratic society and reiterated that peaceful protests are a legitimate means for citizens to express their grievances and seek redress.
“The right to peaceful assembly, demonstration, and picketing is enshrined in our constitution and must be respected by all, including the security forces,” the statement read. “We stand with the demonstrators who have exercised these rights responsibly and peacefully.”
The coalition’s remarks come in response to recent incidents where police officers have been accused of using excessive force to disperse peaceful protests. These actions have drawn widespread criticism from human rights organizations, civil society groups, and the international community.
Azimio la Umoja cautioned that any police officer attempting to disperse the protests unlawfully would be held personally accountable for their actions. The coalition warned that violations of demonstrators’ rights would not be tolerated and that legal action would be pursued against those responsible for such abuses.
“Any police officer who engages in the harassment or unlawful dispersal of peaceful demonstrators will face personal accountability for their actions,” the statement continued. “We urge all officers to exercise restraint and respect the rights of citizens as they fulfill their duties.”
Cabinet Secretary Kindiki has recently issued stringent orders aimed at curbing unrest and maintaining public order during demonstrations. These orders have included directives for increased police presence and the use of force if necessary to prevent disruptions. However, Azimio la Umoja argues that these measures should not infringe upon the constitutional rights of citizens to assemble and protest peacefully.
In light of the ongoing tension, the coalition has called for dialogue between the government and protest organizers to address the underlying issues driving the demonstrations. Azimio la Umoja emphasized that constructive engagement is essential to resolving conflicts and ensuring that the rights of all citizens are upheld.
“We urge the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with protest organizers to address their concerns and find lasting solutions,” the coalition stated. “It is through dialogue and understanding that we can build a more just and inclusive society.”
As the situation continues to evolve, the coalition remains steadfast in its commitment to defending the rights of demonstrators and ensuring that their voices are heard. Azimio la Umoja has vowed to continue monitoring the situation closely and to take all necessary steps to protect the democratic rights of Kenyan citizens.
