Tharaka Nithi County Police Commander Zacheaus Ng’eno has condemned demonstrations that took place in Marima town on Wednesday, terming them illegal after organisers allegedly failed to notify the police as required by law.
Addressing journalists on Thursday, Ng’eno said no notification was submitted ahead of the protests along the Marima–Karigini road, noting that the law provides clear procedures for organising public demonstrations.
“There are legal ways of presenting grievances. What happened here was unlawful because no notice was given to the police,” he said.
The commander added that preliminary investigations suggest the protests may have been politically instigated, though it is too early to draw final conclusions as inquiries continue.
Ng’eno further noted that protesters used dustbins to barricade the road, paralyzing transport and inconveniencing motorists, including patients seeking medical attention and traders transporting perishable goods.
During the protests, a sub-county ward administrator’s office was set on fire, and several police officers sustained minor injuries while restoring order. However, Ng’eno confirmed that no fatalities were reported.
He urged residents to channel dissatisfaction through lawful means, including submitting petitions as provided for in the Constitution, instead of blocking roads or destroying public property.
“It is our duty as police officers to provide security and ensure citizens can express their concerns lawfully without disrupting others,” Ng’eno emphasised.
by Dickson Mwiti and Christine Ngitori
