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Kigame: Azimio right to hold protests, it's illegal to stop them

He, however, says organisers should ensure the protesters maintain peace

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by CYNDY ALUOCH

News18 July 2023 - 14:29
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In Summary


  • •In a tweet on Tuesday, Kigame said demonstrating against bad leadership and oppression of the people is a legitimate practice.
  • •In addition, he cautioned protesters against vandalising public and private properties but instead use their voices to address their issues.
Evangelist and former presidential aspirant Reuben Kigame.

Former presidential aspirant Reuben Kigame has criticised the government for trying to stop demonstrations called by Azimio La Umoja leaders.

In a tweet on Tuesday, Kigame said demonstrating against bad leadership and oppression of the people is a legitimate practice.

He urged all Kenyans tired of bad governance and terrible economic conditions to come out and demonstrate peacefully.

"That right is secured under Article 37 of our Constitution and it is therefore illegal to stop peaceful demonstrations," Kigame said.

"We have warned, written open letters, tweeted and the government will not listen. Hence the demonstrations."

He, however, said, organisers of any demonstrations should ensure that their supporters stay within the definition of 'peaceful' protests.

Kigame called on police officers to maintain peace by avoiding the use of force toward the protesters.

"I urge all our honourable police men and women not to attack or shoot their brothers and sisters," Kigame said.

"Let us all be peaceful and protective of each other."

In addition, he cautioned protesters against vandalising public and private properties but instead use their voices to address their issues.

"Don’t touch anybody’s business or property. Don’t insult anyone. Let us scream and yell our dissatisfaction and let the government hear what we are saying," Kigame said.

Further, he called on President William Ruto to listen to Kenyans which in turn will prevent demos from taking place.

"However, the same way the president has issued executive orders, nothing stops him from going to press today and reverse all this.," Kigame said.

"He needs to withdraw the Finance Act 2023, lower the cost of living and appoint the right people into government and stop corruption."

Azimio leaders have reiterated that the three-day planned protests set to start Wednesday are still on.

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