The Mt Kenya Times 
Acting Inspector General Douglas Kanja addresses the media outside Jogoo House on July 23, 2024
By Cynthia Masibo
In the recent weeks, Kenya has witnessed a surge in Generation-Z protests, which have become a focal point for national debate. Acting Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja has labelled these protests as a haven for goons.
In his recent statements, Kanja has emphasized the need to separate peaceful demonstrators from those exploiting the movement for criminal activities.
His remarks have brought the complexities of managing public protests to the forefront, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in balancing security and the right to assembly.
Kanja’s assertion that “we must separate criminals and they must be dealt with as guided by law” underscores a stringent stance against those he accuses of undermining the integrity of the protests. According to the acting IG, the primary motivation for these criminal elements is to steal and destroy properties belonging to innocent and hardworking Kenyans. This perspective paints a stark picture of the protests, suggesting that what began as a platform for voicing genuine grievances has been hijacked by opportunistic wrongdoers.
The acting IG’s critique extends to the organizers of the protests, whom he blames for not adhering to the stipulations of the Public Order Act. This legislation, which governs the conduct of public demonstrations and meetings, requires organizers to notify authorities and ensure that protests are conducted peacefully.
Kanja’s comments imply that the failure to follow these legal requirements has opened the door for criminal activities, thereby tarnishing the legitimacy of the protests.
“We must separate criminals and they must be dealt with as guided by law,” Kanja asserted, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between lawful assembly and criminal behavior. This distinction is crucial for maintaining public order and protecting the rights of peaceful protesters. However, Kanja’s sweeping characterization of the protests has sparked a broader debate about the role of law enforcement and the framing of public dissent.
Critics argue that Kanja’s comments risk undermining the legitimate concerns being raised by the Gen Z protesters. These demonstrations have brought attention to pressing socio-economic issues, including unemployment, inequality, and political disenfranchisement.
By labelling the protests as a haven for goons, there is a danger of delegitimizing the grievances of those who are peacefully demanding change. This perspective calls for a more nuanced approach that recognizes the right to protest while addressing criminal activities separately.
Various civil society groups have responded to Kanja’s remarks by advocating for a balanced approach to managing the protests. They stress the importance of respecting the rights of demonstrators while taking appropriate action against those engaging in unlawful behavior. This balanced approach is seen as essential for upholding democratic principles and ensuring that the voices of peaceful protesters are heard.
The ongoing Gen Z protests represent a significant moment in Kenya’s socio-political landscape. They reflect a growing demand for change among the younger generation, who are increasingly vocal about their aspirations and frustrations.
As the situation continues to evolve, the response of law enforcement and the framing of these protests will remain critical points of contention.
In conclusion, Acting IG Kanja’s statements have highlighted the dual challenge of addressing criminal behavior while respecting the right to peaceful assembly. His call to distinguish between genuine protesters and criminals is a reminder of the complexities inherent in managing public demonstrations. Moving forward, it will be essential for both authorities and protest organizers to navigate these challenges thoughtfully, ensuring that the rights of all citizens are upheld while maintaining public order.
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