Photos From The Fiery Occupy Harambee Avenue Protest

Yesterday, members of the civil society and other Kenyans took to the streets to protest the rising cases of insecurity in the country.

The march was named Occupy Harambee Avenue and this was their list of demands in regards to improved security:

1.    That the President fulfills every promise to the nation which he has given in the aftermath of the Westgate attack to institute a credible and comprehensive public inquiry into the failings of the security system. That inquiry must not, however be limited to terror attacks, but should investigate thoroughly the ability of the security apparatus and its servicemen to respond to all manifestations of insecurity including the resource conflicts in Northern Kenya, violent crime, growth of local militia and violence against women, etc.

2.   That the Government fully implements the National Police Service Act to create a unified police service as required by the Act, and that the amendments made in June 2013 are reviewed.  Further, that the Government implements the recommendations detailed in the report of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority’s report into the Mpeketoni attack.

3.   That all office holders are held accountable for delivery of their mandates. This includes the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government who should be relieved of his post.

4.   That the illegal deployment of the Kenya Defense Forces within Kenya without express authorization from Parliament cease immediately and any operations be stopped forthwith pending such authorization.

5.    That the Government respects the rights of all Kenyans as it is required to by the Constitution and provide an unambiguous undertaking that it recognizes the sanctity of such rights.

6.   All allegations of misconduct by security agents, for example as identified by the IPOA report into Operation Usalama Watch, are properly investigated and culprits punished.   

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Speaking after the protest, renowned activist Boniface Mwangi said “Thank you to everyone who turned up for Occupy Harambee Avenue. A successful protest is not measured by the number of people who show up or those that are violently dispersed by police, but those lone voices who are unafraid to take a stand.

 To the Kenyans who showed up, your cry for a safer Kenya was heard, loud and clear. This marks the beginning of the citizen accountability movement that will seek to hold its leaders accountable; Tumechoka!

 We are tired of the things that are going wrong but we shall never get tired (Hutatochoka) taking a stand. We shall use both street protests and legal channels to push for a better Kenya.  Aluta Continua”