The Motorist Association of Kenya has condemned the government for putting up roadblocks across major roads, saying that the move has caused unnecessary trouble for Kenyans.
In a statement, the Motorist association said the police were acting unlawfully by blocking roads and stopping people from moving freely.
They blamed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja for giving the orders, they accused him of ignoring and misusing the law.
“How can the IG, who is supposed to protect our rights, be the one breaking the law, why are police stopping hardworking Kenyans from reaching important services that help them live with dignity?” the association questioned.
The group also raised concern that fresh food was going to waste because farmers and traders couldn’t reach the markets. “Our produce are rotting in trucks, and we are are losing money a lot of people are being affected because of these roadblocks,” they said.
They explained that some travellers missed their flights and trains because they were stuck in traffic caused by the blockades. One example given was a group of young people returning from a festival in Diani who were stopped at Dongo Kundu Bypass and held without reason.
The association said the police action went against Article 39 of the Constitution, which gives every Kenyan the right to move freely and live anywhere in the country.
They also pointed out the irony of the situation while civil servants were being told to report to work or face punishment, roadblocks were stopping people from even getting to work in the first place.