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{
    "id": 1581944,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1581944/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 593,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Hon. Peter Kaluma",
    "speaker_title": "The Temporary Speaker",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "Allow me to reiterate that the substantive Speaker had already issued directions on this matter. In addition to expressing condolences to Kenyans who lost their lives and sympathising with those who lost property or suffered injury, a further directive was issued when you stepped out to attend to other parliamentary duties. It was that we must look at how we can secure the rights under Article 47 of the Constitution, so that it is clear when people can demonstrate, picket, petition or do other things. All those are stipulated in Article 47, but it is not clear when to do what. Yesterday, we saw mothers walking through the streets holding placards and demanding compensation for their children who were killed. But compensation is a matter to be pursued through proper legal channels, perhaps, through a petition to this House or the courts. You cannot claim compensation through street demonstrations. The substantive Speaker directed that this legal framework should be thought through and brought before the House in due course. Hon. Members will be informed. Let me also take a moment to thank the police for the restraint they exhibited yesterday, and for the commendable work they continue to do under difficult circumstances. I must also remind them that they can only protect Kenyans if they are secure themselves. I saw some very disturbing videos before coming into the House, of police officers, including female officers, being physically assaulted by members of the public. I saw one being stepped on the head in a manner that was savage and humiliating. Scenes like those send the wrong message to the world that our security infrastructure is weak. That is not the case. I urge our police to continue showing restraint. I also want to remind them that we do not want to see a situation where a police officer is assaulted and yet, he has a gun. The people of Kenya pay for that gun. When it becomes necessary to save your life, remember that it is not a toy. Save yourself so that you can save other Kenyans. I am not advocating excessive use of force from where I sit. The law allows the police to use lethal force when their lives are in danger. Let us not see that situation of a police officer being assaulted when he has a gun hanging on his neck like a toy. This Parliament will protect you if you do what is right, proportionate and reasonable in the circumstance you find yourself in. You should not fear being penalised when your life is in danger. As a police officer, you need to be alive in order to protect the lives of other Kenyans without being excessive. Be encouraged to secure and stabilise your country."
}