LSK Condemns Police for Disrupting Finance Bill Protests

Police arrest a protester within Nairobi streets as a section of Kenyans demonstrated against the Finance Bill, 2024

 Demands Action Against Police Directive

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has demanded that Nairobi region Police Commander Adamson Bungei withdraw his directive barring anti-Finance Bill protests. In a statement on Tuesday, LSK called on Bungei to instruct officers to refrain from making arbitrary arrests or using violence against protesters.

“We are closely monitoring today’s events and will take legal action against Bungei and any officer who violates protesters’ rights. We will hold them personally liable for any breaches of the Constitution and the National Police Service Act.”

Concerns Over Potential Violence

LSK emphasized that the police’s actions could lead to violence against innocent citizens. These actions could result in avoidable injuries and violent attacks. “The running battles and use of teargas on protesters this morning are a despicable affront to the rule of law,” Odhiambo added.

Bungei’s Directive and Justifications

Adamson Bungei dismissed any plans to organize protests in Nairobi, declaring them illegal. He stated that no one had applied for a gathering or picketing permit as required. Bungei cited a ‘faulty’ document dated June of the previous year, which did not meet the protest permission threshold.

“The notification they left at Central is dated June 17, 2023. It is faulty. We can’t allow them. No demonstration,” Bungei said. “Kenyans should be allowed to do their business, and those with grievances should direct them where they know well.”

Bungei mentioned that officers were mobilized to disperse any gathering instantly.

Police Arrest Dozens of Protesters

As a result, police arrested dozens of protesters within Nairobi streets during the protests. The Finance Bill has sparked significant public outcry, with critics arguing that it will impose undue financial burdens on citizens already grappling with economic hardships.

Protester Arrests and Public Outcry

Police in plain clothes arrested protesters converging at various meeting points within the Central Business District. Kenyans attempting to assemble outside the National Archives, National Centre, Kencom, and Jeevanjee Gardens were swiftly arrested.

The heavy-handed approach by the police has drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters. Human rights organizations, civil society groups, and political leaders have criticized the government’s response to the protests. They argue that the right to peaceful assembly is enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya and should be protected.

Background of the Finance Bill Controversy

The Finance Bill, which proposes new taxes and levies, has faced staunch opposition from a broad spectrum of society. Critics claim the bill will exacerbate the financial strain on citizens already struggling with high costs of living. The bill includes measures such as increased VAT on essential goods and services, which many argue will disproportionately affect low-income households.

Public Sentiment and Response

Citizens have taken to social media to express their frustration and anger over the proposed bill and the police’s response to the protests. Hashtags such as #StopFinanceBill2024 and #RightToProtest have been trending, with many calling for a more humane and democratic approach to handling public dissent.

Calls for Dialogue and Negotiation

Several leaders and organizations have urged the government to engage in dialogue with the protesters and address their concerns. They emphasize that a confrontational approach will only heighten tensions and could lead to further unrest.

“We urge the government to listen to the voices of the people and consider their plight. Dialogue is the way forward,” said a representative from a leading human rights organization.

Conclusion

The situation remains tense as the standoff between the police and protesters continues. The coming days will be crucial in determining how the government handles this delicate situation and whether it will opt for a more inclusive approach in addressing the concerns raised by the public. The Law Society of Kenya and other stakeholders remain vigilant, ready to take necessary legal actions to uphold the rights of citizens.

For more details on the protests and the Finance Bill, visit the LSK Official Site and the Kenya National Archives.

This incident highlights the ongoing struggle for democratic freedoms and the importance of upholding constitutional rights in Kenya. As the nation watches closely, the hope is for a peaceful resolution that respects the voices of all Kenyans.