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{
    "id": 324579,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/324579/?format=api",
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    "content": "fact that people have to exercise their rights without infringing on the rights of others. I have explained a situation that is long-term, which will involve amendment of the Public Order Act. The amendment of the Public Order Act is not by regulation. That will be a Bill and this House in its own wisdom will give a lot of input. Mr. Nyambati asked about the security in the designated areas for the people who will be there. That is why I said that if the demonstrators will be informing the police in time, they will be able to prepare the route and provide adequate security. There will be adequate security for both demonstrators and people in those areas of convergence. Mr. Duale asked about the designated areas and how we are going to make sure that the rights of these people are protected as enshrined in the Constitution. I just want to say that during demonstrations, and we have told the police this, the demonstrators should keep a distance. Even if they are coming to demonstrate around Parliament Buildings, they should not be allowed to come up to the gate. Sometimes when we come to Parliament, it is them who open the gate. They surround the police and you have to talk to them to allow you access to Parliament. The immediate steps that I am proposing are for the police to draw a line, so that the demonstrators cannot go beyond it, and so that Members of Parliament or members of the public can access the facility without any disruption. So, we are waiting for the long-term plans in which this honourable House will decide which way to go. Mr. Ethuro said that, at times, these demonstrators seek information. I said in my statement that most of the demonstrators are peaceful and organized. In order for them to get the information they seek or get the officer to present the petition to, they should be giving notice and also the reason for demonstration, so that the concerned officers will prepare in advance, although one may not be able to present information to over 100 demonstrators. That is why I am proposing that they should send five representatives or a delegation of not more than 40 people to receive the information that they seek. I just want to say in a nutshell that I am seeking the support of this House that we let the police allow the demonstrators to exercise their rights, but keep a distance from offices. Even if they go to the Prime Minister’s Office, they should not be allowed to a point where they can through stuff inside the compound. They should remain at a distance, and then an officer from that office can come, address them and give them the information they are looking for, or accept the petition they have. That should be applicable to Parliament Buildings and other public facilities."
}