Editor's Review
NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga has reminded politicians and Kenyans that police officers may cancel or postpone planned rallies.
National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga has reminded politicians and Kenyans that police officers may cancel or postpone planned rallies.
In a statement issued on Saturday, September 5, Nyaga said that while the Constitution of Kenya guarantees the freedom of assembly and participation in political activities, it must be exercised in accordance with the Public Order Act.
He cited Section 5 (4) and 5 of the Act, which allows the regulating officer, the officer in charge of the police station in the area where the proposed meeting is planned, to cancel or reschedule a meeting.
" Section 5(4) provides that where, upon receipt of a notice under subsection (2), it is not possible to hold the proposed meeting or procession because notice of another event has already been received for the same date, time, and venue, the regulating officer shall promptly inform the organiser accordingly.
"Section 5(6) further clarifies that where the regulating officer notifies the organiser under subsection (3) that it is not possible to hold the proposed meeting or procession, such event shall not take place on the date, at the time, or at the venue originally proposed. It may, however, subject to this section, be held on a future date as the organiser may subsequently notify," the statement read.
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Nyaga added that any notice of a meeting should be handed in between three and 14 days prior so that law enforcement can deliver effective and informed security coverage.
He reminded politicians and members of the public that all meetings should run between 6 a.m and 6 p.m. Consequently, leaders have been urged to uphold peace, restraint and respect the rule of law.
"Individuals found to be engaging in acts of violence, sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters, or disrupting lawful gatherings will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law. The National Police Service remains apolitical, impartial, and dedicated to fulfilling its constitutional mandate," the statement continued.
The NPS Spokesperson maintained that the police are committed to serving and protecting all members of the public with competence, professionalism, and integrity.
The statement comes amid a trend of political rallies being marred by political intolerance and acts of violence. In a few instances, the rallies have also gone beyond the 6 p.m timeline.
Police officers have also been accused of not providing adequate security or, in some cases, sitting pretty while mayhem unfolds during the rallies.
