Official warns Kibra protesters against breaking law

Kibra Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner Sese Nyamumbo addresses the crowd as he leads the Madaraka Day celebration in Kibera, Nairobi on 01/05/2016. (PHOTO: PIUS CHERUIYOT/ STANDARD)

Kibera residents have been warned against breaking the law every time they take to the streets to demonstrate.

Kibra Sub-County Deputy Commissioner Nyamumbo Sese said the area had earned a bad name as the youth engage in unlawful activities like uprooting the railway line and clashing with the police whenever there are protests.

Speaking during Madaraka Day celebrations, Mr Sese warned that the Government will deal firmly with those who break the law.

"The Constitution allows peaceful demonstrations, but it does not say the demonstrations must involve uprooting the railway line or harassing the public. Whoever engages in these vices will meet the full force of the law," he said.

Mid last month, a man was shot by police as he and others tried to uproot a section of the railway line passing through Kibera.

"We will not allow the madness to continue any more. I plead with parents to speak to their children to obey the law even as they rightfully demonstrate against issues that don't please them," added Mr Sese.

Madaraka Day celebrations in Kibra were attended by a few members of the public, as most people kept off while others walked to Uhuru Park to attend the Opposition rally.