Kithure Kindiki, the Cabinet Secretary nominee for the Interior Ministry, has pledged to introduce designated areas for public protests if he is re-appointed. During his vetting by Parliament, Kindiki outlined a comprehensive plan to address the escalating violence and disorder that have characterized Kenya’s recent anti-government demonstrations.
Before President William Ruto dissolved his Cabinet on July 11, Kindiki had been working on draft regulations for the Public Order Act. These new regulations are designed to improve the management of public protests and prevent the chaos that has often accompanied them. Kindiki’s proposal includes establishing specific areas where protests can occur, ensuring that these events do not disrupt public order or endanger bystanders.
In his testimony to the National Assembly Committee on Appointments, Kindiki explained that the draft regulations would require public institutions to designate areas within or near their premises where protesters can legally assemble. This measure aims to ensure that demonstrations are contained within manageable locations, reducing the risk of violence and property damage. Additionally, protest organizers would be required to notify the police in advance about the expected number of participants, allowing for better planning and coordination of security measures.
Kindiki’s proposal comes in response to the recent wave of demonstrations that have erupted across Kenya. These protests, which have been fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with President Ruto’s administration, have often turned violent. Demonstrators have marched to key locations such as Nairobi’s city center, Parliament buildings, and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, leading to frequent clashes with law enforcement. The police have faced criticism for their heavy-handed tactics, including allegations of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and the abduction of prominent protestors.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has reported that more than 60 people have been killed since the protests began. The scale of violence and destruction has underscored the need for regulatory measures to manage public gatherings more effectively. Kindiki’s proposed regulations are intended to address these issues by providing a structured approach to protests, aiming to balance the right to demonstrate with the need for public safety.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has been a vocal advocate for the need to designate specific “picketing corners” to prevent confrontations between protesters and the police. Ichung’wah has argued that the absence of such designated areas has contributed to the disorder and violence observed during recent demonstrations. By introducing clear guidelines for where protests can take place, Kindiki hopes to mitigate the tensions and reduce the risk of violent clashes.
Kindiki’s plan also includes measures to ensure that police escorts during demonstrations are effective in maintaining order and preventing disruptions. The requirement for advance notification from protest organizers is intended to enhance coordination and ensure that the police are adequately prepared to manage the scale of the protests.
If re-appointed, Kindiki’s approach could represent a significant shift in the regulation of public demonstrations in Kenya. The proposed regulations aim to restore order and ensure that the right to protest is exercised in a manner that does not compromise public safety. The effectiveness of these measures will depend on their implementation and the cooperation of all parties involved.
