The second anniversary of the Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill, 2024 was expected to test Kenya's commitment to both democratic freedoms and public order. Ahead of the demonstrations, police assured citizens that peaceful protests would be allowed.
However, the extensive barricading of roads leading into Nairobi's central business district created a different reality, effectively turning the city centre into a restricted zone.
The government has a legitimate responsibility to maintain security, protect lives and property, and prevent criminal elements from infiltrating peaceful demonstrations. Recent experiences have shown that protests can sometimes be exploited by individuals intent on causing chaos.
In this regard, security agencies can not be faulted for preparing adequately. Yet security measures should not come at the expense of the rights of other citizens. Thousands of workers, business owners and residents with no intention of participating in the demonstrations found themselves unable to access their workplaces and carry out their daily activities.
The resulting disruption raised concerns about the proportionality of the restrictions imposed. A mature democracy requires balance. Peaceful protesters must be allowed to exercise their constitutional rights, while non-participants should enjoy freedom of movement and access to economic opportunities.
Future demonstrations demand smarter policing that safeguards security without unnecessarily paralysing the city and inconveniencing law-abiding citizens.
Quote of the Day: “When good people in any country cease their vigilance and struggle, then evil men prevail.” —American author and humanitarian Pearl S Buck was born on June 26, 1892
