Demonstrations

On Wednesday, a significant number of Kenyans took to the streets to protest against the high cost of living and the Finance Act 2023. 

Despite a police directive advising against venturing out for protests, mobs of rioters disregarded the warning and proceeded with their protests, resulting in confrontations with law enforcers. Regrettably, there have been reports of seven fatalities and numerous injuries.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, representing the Azimio la Umoja Coalition, has emphasised that the coalition remains steadfast in its commitment to organising national demonstrations. Speaking on Thursday, Senator Sifuna conveyed that the Kenya Kwanza government must heed the voices of the people.

“We are planning three consecutive days of protests, starting from Monday and continuing until Wednesday next week, as a means to compel President Ruto to listen to the concerns of Kenyans,” stated Sifuna during an interview on Citizen TV. He further reiterated that the public’s discontent stems from the government’s implementation of high taxation measures amid challenging economic times.

Meanwhile, Interior CS Kithure Kindiki has reported that 312 individuals, including a Member of Parliament, who directly or indirectly instigated or financed the violent protests on Wednesday, have been apprehended. Kindiki stated that these arrested individuals will face charges related to various criminal offences. Additionally, efforts are underway to identify and apprehend additional culprits involved in the acts of hooliganism and lawlessness, as such behaviour is deemed a recipe for anarchy.

The situation continues to unfold, and further updates on the matter are expected in due course.