In anticipation of the planned maandamano demonstrations in Mombasa, local police authorities have issued a plea to residents, urging them to engage in peaceful expressions of their concerns. The call comes as various groups and organizations prepare to take to the streets to voice their demands for change and reform.
The Mombasa Police Department, in a statement released today, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, order, and respect for the law during the protests. Recognizing the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, authorities appealed to participants to ensure that their demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful, refraining from any actions that could incite violence or disrupt public order.
The police statement emphasized the need for dialogue and constructive engagement, encouraging participants to convey their messages effectively without resorting to aggression or destruction. The authorities reiterated their commitment to upholding the safety and security of all citizens, including the demonstrators, and emphasized that any acts of violence or lawlessness would be swiftly addressed by the law. The Mombasa Police Commissioner, Mr. Johnson Kimani, highlighted the importance of peaceful protest as a democratic right but stressed the need for responsible conduct.
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He stated, “We recognize and respect the citizens’ right to express their concerns. We urge all participants to engage in peaceful demonstrations, allowing their voices to be heard without endangering public safety or infringing on the rights of others.” In an effort to maintain order and safeguard public spaces, the police department has deployed additional personnel and resources across the city.
Law enforcement officials will closely monitor the demonstrations to ensure that they proceed peacefully and without incident. The appeal for peaceful engagement has received mixed reactions from residents. Some expressed appreciation for the police’s commitment to maintaining peace and facilitating peaceful protests, while others voiced concerns about potential clashes or disruptions during the maandamano.
Local community leaders and activists have also responded to the police’s appeal, calling on all participants to adhere to the principles of non-violence and respect for public property. They emphasized the importance of staying focused on the core issues being addressed and using peaceful means to advocate for change.
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As the city of Mombasa prepares for the maandamano demonstrations, the collective hope remains that participants will heed the call for peaceful engagement, ensuring that their message is heard without compromising public safety or causing undue disruption.
The police have expressed their willingness to facilitate peaceful protests and engage in constructive dialogue with organizers to address the concerns raised by the demonstrators.
As the day of the demonstrations approaches, all eyes are on Mombasa, awaiting the outcome of these significant events and the impact they may have on the ongoing dialogue for change in Kenya.