By Boniface Harrison – Executive Director, MuemAction Post
Recently, we have all witnessed running battles between citizens and the police in Kenya following the brutal murder of blogger Albert Ojwang. In their quest for justice, citizens have taken to the streets.
However, what should have been peaceful demonstrations have sadly included incidents of police brutality such as close-range shootings, as well as provocations from some protestors such as throwing objects, mockery and cases of looting, robbery with violence, and destruction of property by armed gangs within the Nairobi CBD.
Many, like Karl Marx, may argue that conflict is an inherent part of society. And indeed, it is necessary to disagree, because it is through disagreement that ideas and perspectives are refined, challenged, and shaped into better solutions. However, harm, violence, and extremism must never be normalized. No development can thrive in a chaotic society. We have seen this truth play out in many nations where conflict and war have derailed progress and destroyed generations of hope.
Over the years, violent protests have become a painful part of our democratic journey in Kenya. Anger and frustration are justified, but resorting to violence or movements being infiltrated by malicious individuals has brought deep consequences.
While significant progress has been achieved through civic action, lives have been lost in the process. Families have been torn apart. Businesses have crumbled. And the very communities we seek to uplift have often been left broken. We need to pause and ask ourselves questions, then create solutions:
Must justice always come at such a high cost?
Can our voices be heard without violence?
Can the police protect without harming those who are innocent?
Can we express our demands, defend our rights, and still protect our communities?
These are the questions we must confront as a nation.
It is time we adopt more protective, strategic, and impactful approaches to civic action.
As a professional social worker and community development practitioner who has been part of movements and participated in several community social actions, At MuemAction Post, we propose the following measures for safer and more effective protests in the future when need be:
- Protestors should avoid walking alone and instead stay in groups for safety.
- Protestors should not throw objects or hurl insults.
- Protestors should agree on the routes they plan to use and stick to them throughout the protest.
- Peaceful sit-ins or vigils should be held at the offices or institutions where justice is being demanded.
- Protestors should carry placards with clear messages that express their demands respectfully.
- Protestors should identify and keep away from individuals who are drunk, carrying weapons, or showing signs of violent behavior.
- Citizens coming from work should seek updates on the situation to avoid walking into chaotic areas.
- The police should exercise restraint and avoid using live bullets, tear gas or batons on peaceful demonstrators.
- The police should protect peaceful protestors from violent individuals and safeguard businesses from looters.
- Those caught looting or causing destruction should be arrested, and peaceful protestors should work with the police in identifying them.
I strongly believe that together, we can be part of movements that are strong, purposeful, and safe for everyone.
May justice be served, and may peace prevail across our streets, communities, and country.
Join our WhatsApp channel here for inspiring insights on social issues
