Tharaka nithi: Tharaka Nithi County Police Commander Zacheaus Ng’eno has condemned demonstrations that took place in Marima town on Wednesday, terming them illegal after organizers allegedly failed to notify the police as required by law. Addressing journalists on Thursday, Ng’eno stated that no notification was submitted ahead of the protests along the Marima-Karigini road, emphasizing that the law provides clear procedures for organizing public demonstrations.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ng’eno highlighted that there are legal ways of presenting grievances, and what transpired was unlawful due to the lack of notice given to the police. He mentioned that preliminary investigations suggest the protests may have been politically instigated, though it is too early to draw final conclusions as inquiries continue.
Ng’eno further noted that protesters used dustbins to barricade the road, causing transport paralysis and inconveniencing motorists, including patients seeking medical attention and traders transporting perishable goods. During the protests, a sub-county ward administrator’s office was set on fire, and several police officers sustained minor injuries while restoring order. However, Ng’eno confirmed that no fatalities were reported.
He urged residents to channel dissatisfaction through lawful means, such as submitting petitions as provided for in the Constitution, instead of blocking roads or destroying public property. ‘It is our duty as police officers to provide security and ensure citizens can express their concerns lawfully without disrupting others,’ Ng’eno emphasized.
