Kimilili Member of Parliament (MP) Didmus Barasa has warned the youth of the consequences that await them should they proceed with the “Occupy JKIA” protests scheduled for Tuesday, July 23.
In a statement made on X, Barasa cautioned the youth against participating in the protests, urging them to carefully consider their choices.
He cautioned that attempting to access the JKIA airport or any other restricted area could lead to severe consequences.
“To all Gen Z’s, make a choice tomorrow between going about your business or attempting to go to the airport and/or any other restricted places,” stated Barasa.
He explained that choosing the former would mean that the youth would avert themselves from harm and live to actualize their dreams.
“The consequence of staying at home and going about your own business would be that you would live to actualize your dreams, maybe get a good job in future so that you can be able to assist your parents and siblings.”
Barasa Explains the Consequences of Engaging in the “Occupy JKIA” protest,
On the other hand, Barasa elaborated on the potential outcomes of choosing to proceed with the “Occupy JKIA” protest, indicating that participants might find themselves occupying one of several government buildings, including finding themselves in hospitals, or meet an even worse fate.
Also Read: New Police IG Sends Warning to Protesters Hours to Planned Gen Zs Demos
“Airport route will have only one consequence: I can guarantee by end of day you will find yourself confined in one of the below government buildings (Majengo ya serikali) mutagawana majengo, some will go to police cells, other to hospitals na wengine Mortuary.”
He urged the youth to make the right choice and refrain from participating in the protests, noting they had the power to choose where they would want to be by end of day.
“Choices have consequences, the power to choose belongs to you, mimi sina uwezo. I have done my part as your defacto chairman.” he said.
Police Warn Against the “Occupy JKIA” Protest
The MP’s warning to Gen Zs follows an earlier statement by the National Police Service (NPS) warning the public to adhere to legal restrictions concerning protected areas in the country.
In a press release issued on 22nd July, acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho emphasized the importance of respecting Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities.
He however, noted that this right should be exercised within the boundaries of the law so as to ensure public safety and overall national security.
Also Read: Kenya Airports Authority Issues Directive Ahead of #OccupyJKIA Protests
The NPS highlighted specific legal frameworks governing protected areas, particularly those outlined in the Protected Areas Act Cap 204.
In the statement the police boss listed several critical infrastructures such as the LPG Plant, the Bitumen Plant, and petroleum depots located at the Embakasi Aviation Depot (JKIA), noting that the legislation prohibited unauthorized entry into these designated protected areas.
He added that the Kenya Civil Aviation Act stated that any person who trespasses on any land forming part of a government aerodrome, or an aerodrome commits an offence punishable by 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,” said Kanja.
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