Motorists Association issues five demands ahead of Saba Saba protests
In a statement released on Saturday, July 5, the association reminded authorities that demonstrations are guaranteed under Article 37 of the Constitution and therefore must be facilitated, not suppressed.
The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has outlined five key demands to the government ahead of the planned Saba Saba demonstrations on Monday, July 7, insisting that peaceful protests must be protected as a constitutional right, not treated as a disruption or threat.
In a statement released on Saturday, July 5, MAK reminded authorities that demonstrations are guaranteed under Article 37 of the Constitution and therefore must be facilitated, not suppressed.
More To Read
- Schools on edge as Saba Saba protests loom
- Health caucus speaks out, decries police violence against medics during protests
- Saba Saba: Why Kenyans protest on July 7
- Saba Saba: Protests loom on July 7 as lobby issues Ruto fresh demands
- CBD vehicle ban sparks outcry from Motorists Association of Kenya
- KEBS eases import rules for older left-hand, special-purpose vehicles
“It is therefore the duty of the government, through the National Police Service, to facilitate these rights, not to frustrate, endanger, or criminalize them,” the association stated.
The association urged police to ensure peaceful protesters are given safe passage and protected from criminal elements and hired groups who might attempt to cause chaos.
MAK also demanded that police officers act with professionalism and refrain from using excessive force, tear gas, or live bullets against unarmed demonstrators under any circumstances.
In addition, it asked that public transport be allowed to operate without interference and that motorists be assured of unhindered access across Nairobi and its outskirts during the protests.
Shops and businesses must also be shielded from looting or violence to allow normal economic activity to continue.
Referring to the events of June 25, the lobby group criticised the conduct of police during those protests, saying security officers unleashed violence instead of offering protection.
“Instead of protecting life and property, the police became the very threat from which Kenyans needed protection.
Roads were blocked without notice, public transport paralysed, and essential services crippled,” the association criticised.
The association warned against road closures and the disruption of transport corridors during protests, saying this undermines access to services and harms both protesters and non-protesters alike.
It emphasized that it is the responsibility of the police to maintain order without infringing on rights or inciting further chaos.
While the association reaffirmed the right to protest, police have indicated that they are unaware of any formal communication about the planned Saba Saba demonstrations.
During an interview with Citizen TV on Thursday, Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the National Police Service had not received any notification regarding the protests.
Nyaga acknowledged that the right to protest is protected by law but urged organisers to seek official clearance before demonstrating.
He warned that those who protest without informing the police could face legal consequences, noting that such gatherings often turn violent. “Illegal protests often descend into chaos and destruction of property,” he added.
Top Stories Today
