Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has warned Gen Zs against marching to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) ahead of Tuesday, July 23, 2024, anti-government demonstrations.
In a statement shared on his X account, Barasa cautioned that attempting to go to a restricted area like JKIA could lead to severe consequences.
The legislator said that protesters may potentially find themselves in one of several government facilities others in police custody, hospitals and, unfortunately, some might even end up in the morgue.
“To all Gen Zs, make a choice tomorrow between going about your business or attempting to go to the airport and/or any other restricted places. Airport route will have only one consequence: finding yourself confined in one of the below government buildings (Majengo ya serikali). Some will go to police cells, others to hospitals, and some to the mortuary. The power to choose belongs to you; mimi sina uwezo. I have done my part as your de facto chairman,” Barasa declared.
Police warn Gen Zs
The National Police Service (NPS) also warned protestors planning demonstrations on Tuesday, urging them to stay clear of state-protected areas.
“The National Police Service reiterates its commitment to Article 37 and its mandate to ensure public safety and national security. In light of the demonstrations planned for July 23, 2024, it is critical to firmly remind the public of the legal boundaries that govern access to protected areas,” the NPS stated on Monday, July 22, 2024.
NPS also said the Kenya C. Aviation Act No. 21 of 2013, under Section 58 on trespass, specifies that trespassing on government aerodromes or licensed aerodromes is a punishable offence.
“In addition, Kenya C. Aviation Act No. 21 of 2013 under Section 58 on trespass provides that any person who trespasses on any land forming part of a government aerodrome or an aerodrome licensed under regulations made under this Act commits an offence punishable by law,” NPS said.
Adding;
“We urge all individuals participating in demonstrations to respect these legal provisions and refrain from attempting to enter or interfere with protected areas. The National Police Service is resolute in its commitment to uphold and enforce these laws.”