Nairobi, July 1, 2024 — The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has issued a critical statement in light of the planned nation-wide protests against the Finance Bill 2024 scheduled for tomorrow.
This protest is expected to be led by the younger generation, often referred to as Gen Z, who have expressed strong opposition to the proposed bill, citing concerns over increased taxes and economic hardship.
The Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson M. Ingonga, emphasized that the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions is enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution of 2010.
This right is a fundamental aspect of democratic expression, allowing citizens to voice their grievances and hold authorities accountable.
However, Ingonga made it clear that while this right is protected, it is not without limitations. To safeguard lives and property, the DPP stressed that all demonstrations must be peaceful and that participants must be unarmed. The right does not extend to activities that incite violence, spread hate speech, or promote ethnic hatred.
This statement comes in response to the recent unrest observed on June 25, 2024, when protests led to significant loss of life, property damage, and vandalism.
Ingonga expressed concern over these incidents, noting that such criminal activities cannot be allowed to continue unchecked.
To address these issues, the ODPP has directed the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to expedite investigations into the recent violence.
Ingonga assured that any individuals found responsible for these acts would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The DPP warned that any future acts of violence, particularly those targeting critical infrastructure such as government buildings, would be met with strict legal action.
Interior Security Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki also addressed the upcoming protests, stating that the government would permit the demonstrations as long as they remain peaceful and adhere to the rule of law.
Kindiki outlined several conditions for the protests, including the requirement for protesters to inform the police of their plans, routes, and timings to ensure law and order are maintained.