Courtsey.
The legal principle that ignorance of the law is not a valid defense is based on the idea that laws are publicly known and accessible, and that claiming ignorance cannot make people charged with criminal offences avoid the consequences.
Though there are certain exceptions to this rule – such as when a new law has been passed without sufficient time for the public to become aware of it – this principle should prompt citizens to acquire basic legal literacy to avoid finding themselves on the wrong side of the law.
In Kenya and other jurisdictions, terrorism-related offences are very serious and attract stiffer penalties due to their impact on the national security.
On this basis, it is critical for Kenyans to be familiar with the country’s legal framework for fighting terrorism for a number of reasons.
Firstly, understanding counter terrorism laws can enable citizens to support government’s war on terror including through volunteering information on terrorism activities to authorities.
Secondly, it will help prevent inadvertent committing of terrorism-related offences.
The Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2012 (POTA) is the primary legislation for fighting terrorism in all its manifestations. It also provides detailed measures for detection and prevention of terrorist activities in the country.