The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has urged Kenyans to defy Acting Interior CS Fred Matiang'i's order banning demonstrations in the Central Business Districts of Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa.
On Thursday, the Commissions Executive Director Samwel Mochochi issued a statement urging Kenyans to disregard the order and exercise their democratic right to protest peacefully.
"ICJ-Kenya urges all law-abiding Citizens of Kenya to disregard such unlawful and illegal directions and enjoy their fundamental rights to the fullest including turning out in large numbers to demonstrate in the NASA demonstrations in peaceful and lawful manner," the statement read.
He further asked the police to provide security to demonstrators and businesses during the protests.
"We demand that the National Police Service continues facilitating NASA demonstrations by providing security and apprehend any criminal elements committing crimes within such demonstrations," Mr. Mochochi added.
The Rights group concluded by declaring that:"ICJ-Kenya reiterates he that the Rule of Law remains a cornerstone of our constitutional democracy and reminds all political leaders that no one is above the law in Kenya and every one can be subject to legal consequences for undermining the core constitutional order."
On Thursday, Dr Matiang'i, banned all the demonstrations in the CBDs on Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa.
Addressing the media from Harambee House, Matiang'i stated: " In accordance with the law, due to the recent breach of peace as witnessed, the government will not allow demonstrations in Nairobi CBD, Mombasa and Kisumu".
[caption caption="Interior CS addressing Press at Harambee House"]
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After the announcement, A section of National Super Alliance (NASA) leaders dismissed the ban.
Speaking to KTN News, the legislators Otiende Amollo (Rarieda), Esther Passaris (Nairobi Woman Rep), Simba Arati ( Dagoretti North) and Antony Oluoch (Mathare) stated that CS Matiang'i's directive was unlawful adding that the anti-IEBC demos would proceed as scheduled.
"The CS's directive is unlawful, demonstrations will continue peacefully. We urge the police to come out and protect the citizens," Otiende stated.
The Rarieda legislator also noted that it was the duty of the police to protect the protestors adding that NASA should not be blamed for any damages that occurred.
[caption caption="NASA demonstrations "]
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Meanwhile, Amnesty International has warned that the ban on demonstrations in the three city centers could lead to violent crackdown on protesters
The Human Rights Organization asked the police to avoid the use of force in maintaining calm during the demonstrations.
