Motorists Make 5 Key Demands Ahead of Saba Saba Day Protests
The Motorists Association of Kenya has put forward five important demands to the government ahead of the planned protests on Saba Saba Day, Monday, July 7.
In a statement issued on Saturday, July 5, the association emphasized that protests are not something the government grants as a favor. Instead, they are a fundamental right protected by Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution.
The association said, “It is the government’s responsibility, especially through the National Police Service, to support and allow these rights to be exercised freely, not to block, endanger, or criminalize peaceful protests.”
Because of this, the Motorists Association called on the police to make sure that on Saba Saba Day—and during all future protests—they provide safe routes for protesters to move without harm.
They also want the police to protect peaceful demonstrators from violent hired thugs or criminals who might try to cause trouble.
Moreover, the association insisted that shops and businesses must be safeguarded during protests so that trade and daily commerce can continue without disruption or fear.
They also demanded that public transport services should be allowed to operate normally. Motorists want to be assured that they will have safe and clear passage throughout the city and surrounding areas.
The police were further urged to stop using harsh tactics such as excessive force, tear gas, or live bullets on unarmed protesters, no matter the situation.
In addition, the association called on the police to behave professionally, reflecting the true spirit of the National Police Service. They stressed that police should not act as agents of fear or cruelty but should protect citizens with respect and fairness.
The group referred to the protests on June 25, where they said peaceful demonstrations were violently broken up by the police, who used tear gas and brutality. They also claimed that violent groups, hired to cause chaos, infiltrated the protests.
Instead of protecting people and property during those protests, the police themselves became a source of danger to Kenyans, the association argued.
Roads were blocked without warning, public transport was stopped, and many essential services were disrupted.
The motorists’ association also highlighted the need for police to ensure safety not only for protesters but also for those not involved, including business owners and shoppers.
They criticized the practice of blocking roads and transport routes during protests, explaining that this causes unnecessary problems for daily transport and movement.
On the other hand, police officials recently stated that they had not received any formal notice about the upcoming Saba Saba protests.
Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga told Citizen TV on Thursday that the National Police Service was unaware of any planned demonstrations.
While Muchiri confirmed that Kenyans have the right to protest, he reminded anyone planning to demonstrate that they must first get official permission from the police.
He warned that people who hold protests without a permit risk breaking the law. He also noted that illegal protests often lead to chaos and damage to property, making the situation worse for everyone involved.
In summary, the Motorists Association is calling on the government and police to respect citizens’ rights to protest peacefully, ensure the safety of all during demonstrations, protect businesses, and keep transport systems running smoothly on Saba Saba Day and beyond.
They want the police to avoid violent crackdowns and instead act professionally to support peace and order.
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