- Additionally, the groups called on the police to immediately disallow the illegal activities and initiate investigations concerning the culprits involved.
- "Let it be known that we will not relent in our unwavering pursuit of justice, equality, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all."
Image: BBC
The Kenya Human Rights Commission with 29 other organizations wants the government to stop an alleged planned anti-LGBTQ protest scheduled for Friday, October 6, 2023.
Through a statement, the lobbies termed the planned protest as dangerous.
"On February 24, 2023, the apex court said LGBTQ persons have a right to association and reaffirmed this position on September 12."
"The protest is calling for the attack of LGBTQ persons, culminating in a hateful campaign that started in Mombasa in September," part of the statement read.
They further stated that a hate campaign is coming to the capital, adding that it will affect LGBTQ persons' lives because previous street actions placed this group in harm’s way.
"We take this opportunity to unequivocally condemn all the previous and ongoing nefarious activities that continue to expose this community's rights to life, security, and dignity."
"The Constitution and the court’s decision must be respected."
Additionally, the groups called on the police to immediately disallow the illegal activities and initiate investigations concerning the culprits involved.
"We wish to remind them and the public that under Article 33(2) of the Constitution: The right to freedom of expression does not extend to (a)propaganda for war; (b)incitement to violence; (c)hate speech; or (d) advocacy for hatred that: (i)constitutes ethnic incitement, vilification of others or incitement to cause harm; or (ii)is based on any ground of discrimination specified or contemplated in Article 27(4)," the statement continued.
"Let it be known that we will not relent in our unwavering pursuit of justice, equality, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all."
The lobbies called on other bodies to take action in the criminal justice system.
"We wish to oblige Kenyans to exercise more tolerance and restraint—having diverse sexual orientations and gender identities is not a crime but a fundamental aspect of human diversity."
During their protests in Mombasa last month the anti-LBGTQ+ movement chairperson Salim Karama said that they had mobilised thousands of residents from Kisauni, Nyali, Jomvu, Changamwe, Likoni and Mvita for the exercise.
“We have already notified the police of our planned demonstration. We have also had a meeting with them and they have agreed to grant us security during the demonstrations,” said Karama.