With anti-government demonstrations scheduled for today, police authorities have issued a stern warning to protesters about the legal consequences of accessing protected areas. This announcement comes as demonstrators intensify their mobilization for a march towards the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in an event dubbed ‘OccupyJKIA’.
The protests, which have been ongoing since President William Ruto introduced the controversial Finance Bill 2024 late last month, highlight growing public discontent with his administration. Demonstrators are calling for comprehensive governmental reforms, with some factions demanding the president’s resignation.
Acting Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja emphasized that while the right to protest is enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution, citizens must respect the legal boundaries protecting certain areas. “The Protected Areas Act Cap 204 Laws of Kenya prevents the entry of unauthorized persons into areas which have been declared to be protected areas. Protected Areas Order as clarified under its Legal Notice No. 9 of 2011, Second Schedule, include LPG Plant, the Bitumen Plant, and Petroleum depots situated at the Embakasi Aviation Depot (JKIA),” Kanja highlighted.
Kanja’s statement underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure and maintaining public order during these demonstrations. He warned that the Kenya Civil Aviation Act stipulates severe penalties for individuals who trespass on government aerodromes or interfere with aerodrome operations. “Any person who trespasses on any land forming part of a government aerodrome or an aerodrome commits an offence punishable by law,” Kanja stated, reiterating the gravity of the legal consequences for such actions.
The mobilization for today’s protest has gained significant traction online, drawing parallels with previous demonstrations such as ‘OccupyParliament’ and ‘OccupyCBD’. These movements have seen demonstrators take to the streets in Nairobi’s city centre and around key government buildings, demanding accountability and transparency from the government.
However, the planned march towards JKIA marks a significant escalation, given the strategic importance of the airport and its designation as a protected area. The police have made it clear that any attempt to breach JKIA’s security will be met with strict enforcement of the law. “We urge all individuals participating in demonstrations to respect these legal provisions and refrain from attempting to enter or interfere with protected areas. The National Police Service is resolute in its commitment to uphold and enforce these laws,” Kanja asserted.
The tension surrounding tomorrow’s protest highlights the growing rift between the Kenyan government and its citizens. The Finance Bill 2024, which has been the focal point of the protests, includes measures that many Kenyans believe will exacerbate their economic challenges. The government’s decision to press ahead with the bill, despite widespread opposition, has only fueled the protesters’ resolve.
As Nairobi prepares for today’s demonstrations, the situation remains fluid. The police have bolstered their presence around key infrastructures, including JKIA, to prevent any unauthorized access. The public has been urged to conduct their demonstrations peacefully and within the bounds of the law.
In the coming days, the response of both the government and the demonstrators will be closely watched as the nation grapples with ongoing challenges of governance and public dissent. Today’s events will likely set the tone for future interactions between the state and its citizens as Kenya navigates this tumultuous period in its political landscape.
