NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya National Police Service has banned planned demonstrations at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
With hashtags like #TotalShutdown, #OccupyJKIA, and #RutoMustGo gaining steam online, Generation Z has scheduled protests for Tuesday.
The demonstrations highlight the widening gap between Gen Z and the government in their demands for transparency and sound leadership.
However, the National Police Service has prohibited anti-government protests stemming from the punitive Finance Bill 2024.
According to the police, the anti-government protests have been infiltrated by organised criminal gangs.
“The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to Article 37, and it’s mandate to ensure public safety and national security. In light of the public of the demonstrations planned for July 23, 2024, it is critical to firmly remind the public of the legal boundaries that govern access to protected areas,” NPS said in a statement.
According to the statement seen by Y News, the Protected Areas Act Cap 204 Laws of Kenya prevents the entry of the unauthorised persons into areas which have been declared to be protected areas.
“Protected Areas Order as clarified under its Legal Notice No.9 of 3011. Second Schedule include LPG Plant, the Bitumen Plant and Petroleum depots situated at the Embakasi Aviation Depot (JKIA).”
In addition, the Kenyan Police claim that the Kenya Civil Aviation Act No.21 or 2013 under Section 58 on trespass provides that any person who trespasses or any land forming part of a government aerodrome or an aerodrome licensed under under regulations made under this Act 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 statement further reads.
The National Police Service through actiknv Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja said that it is resolute in its commitment to uphold and enforce the laws.
President William Ruto had hoped to calm the youth by declining to assent to the controversial Finance Bill 2024 and dismissing his Cabinet save for the Prime Cabinet Secretary.
The youth are particularly angered by the reappointment of politicians previously dismissed from Cabinet and claims of a questionable 30-year lease of JKIA, allegedly approved without following due process.
