The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern reminder to the public to adhere to legal restrictions concerning protected areas in the country.
In a press release issued on 22nd July 2024, 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.
However, he stressed that this right must be exercised within the boundaries of the law to ensure public safety and national security.
The NPS highlighted specific legal frameworks governing protected areas, particularly those outlined in the Protected Areas Act Cap 204.
IG Douglas Kanja on Protected Areas
This legislation prohibits unauthorized entry into designated protected areas, which include critical infrastructure such as the LPG Plant, the Bitumen Plant, and petroleum depots located at the Embakasi Aviation Depot (JKIA).
“We urge all individuals participating in demonstrations to respect these legal provisions and refrain from attempting to enter or interfere with protected areas,” said Kirocho. “The National Police Service is resolute in its commitment to uphold and enforce these laws.”
Also Read: Kenya Airports Authority Issues Directive Ahead of #OccupyJKIA Protests
These areas were further defined under Legal Notice No. 9 of 2011, Second Schedule.
Additionally, the Kenya Civil Aviation Act No. 21 of 2013, particularly Section 58 on trespass, categorically states that trespassing on government aerodromes or any aerodrome licensed under this act constitutes a punishable offence.
The police have showed that any attempts to enter or disrupt these protected zones during the demonstrations will be met with stringent legal action.
“We urge all individuals participating in demonstrations to respect these legal provisions and refrain from attempting to enter or interfere with protected areas,” said Kirocho. “The National Police Service is resolute in its commitment to uphold and enforce these laws.”
Occupy JKIA Planned Protests
In an open letter to the President, Gen Zs had announced plans for continued protesting. “We, the people of Kenya, will take to the streets on Tuesday, the 23rd, without fail,” the letter declared.
“We will occupy all Towns, Cities, Major Roads and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport every day until change comes,” the letter further stated.
Also Read: Gen Zs Fire Back at President Ruto’s Enough is Enough Warning
The announcement comes amid rising tensions and widespread mobilization for the upcoming protests.
However, the police have reassured the public of their commitment to safeguarding both the demonstrators’ rights and the security of vital national infrastructure.
As the country prepares for what could be a significant day of civic action, the NPS calls on all participants to conduct themselves responsibly, ensuring that their activities remain peaceful and lawful.
The National Police Service’s vigilance and readiness to enforce these provisions shows the balance between upholding democratic freedoms and maintaining public order.
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