DO'S AND DON'TS TO BE SAFE DURING THE #REJECTFINANCEBILL2024 DEMOS

Benign_Overlord avatar
Eric Muriuki
@Benign_OverlordJun 2, 2025

The Spaces meeting focused on discussing safety measures for upcoming demonstrations in Kenya. Key speakers included Eric Mojoki, a legal advocate, Dr. Hope, a medical professional, and human rights activists who shared insights on legal and medical precautions during protests. The dialogue covered safety tips, such as appropriate clothing, handling of tear gas exposure, and first aid for common injuries. Legal experts advised on demonstrators' rights, avoiding provocation with police, and the importance of documenting potential rights violations. The session aimed to ensure participant safety while advocating for peaceful assembly and legal support in case of arrests.

Summary of Twitter Spaces Recording

Introduction and Participant Overview

The session was an online gathering aimed at discussing safety precautions and legal advice for upcoming demonstrations. Several key speakers participated, including Eric Mojoki, an advocate from the High Court of Kenya; Brian Bomdea, an influencer; Dr. Hope; Leon Carrier, another legal advocate; Grace, a mental health advocate; Abu Man Su; President Faith Otiamo of a legal association; and various other human rights activists and legal professionals. The session was primarily about ensuring safety during demonstrations and providing legal advice and support to participants.

Key Points Discussed

  • Legal Panel and Safety Guidelines:

    • Eric Mojoki introduced the space, emphasizing the combination of legal and medical professionals working together to ensure public safety during demonstrations, focusing on legal and medical 'do's and don'ts.'
    • Dr. Hope provided detailed safety precautions concerning physical health during demonstrations, such as appropriate attire, first aid tips, and types of common injuries and their immediate treatments. Key advice included wearing protective clothing, avoiding open shoes, and being prepared for tear gas exposure by using simple face masks and avoiding certain cosmetics.
    • Brian Bomdea discussed social media's role in spreading awareness and safely navigating city routes during demonstrations.

  • Legal Rights and Recommendations:

    • Leon Carrier inquired about the correct substance to use against tear gas exposure, confirming the advice to use only water, not other commonly suggested items.
    • Grace and various contributors focused on the specific needs for chronic asthmatic patients and other vulnerable groups who might be at risk during demonstrations.
    • Faith Otiamo highlighted maintaining peace, avoiding provocations against police, and provided legal counsel tips such as calling for legal aid during arrests and reporting rights violations.

  • Safety and Emergency Preparedness:

    • Various speakers addressed the importance of situational awareness, walking in groups, and reporting emergencies quickly.
    • Dr. Hope shared insights into handling emergency situations like bleeding, fainting, and dealing with potential gunshot wounds by emphasizing not to remove foreign objects or bullets to prevent exacerbating injuries.

  • Legal Tools and Resources:

    • It was emphasized to know legal rights pertaining to demonstrations, such as those under national constitutions and global standards.
    • Toll-free numbers and emergency contacts for reporting abuses or seeking aid were provided, emphasizing quick and efficient response during emergencies.

  • Community Support and Contributions:

    • Participants were encouraged to contribute resources like medical supplies and to spread awareness about the available emergency contact information.

Important Notes

  • Public Safety: Participants were repeatedly reminded of the importance of staying within the law, avoiding carrying potential weapons, and emphasizing peaceful protest to avoid conflict with law enforcement.
  • Documentation and Evidence: There was significant discussion on recording events carefully and gathering evidence during possible rights violations efficiently and legally for use in future legal recourse.
  • Social Media and Public Awareness: Utilizing social media to document live occurrences during the protest was suggested to help with accountability and real-time support.
  • Helpline and Support: The recording concluded with sharing crucial helpline numbers for participants to access legal aid and medical assistance swiftly.

Closing Remarks

The session wrapped up by urging participants to ensure they and their peers are well-informed, prepared, and safe during upcoming demonstrations, with repeated calls to emphasize safety, legality, and community support.