The African Union Commission has called for dialogues between President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga in order to promote calm and restraint amid the heightened protests.
Through a statement, AU chairperson Moussa Faki urged stakeholders to exercise calm and engage in dialogue to address any differences that may exist in the supreme interest of national unity and reconciliation.
“AU expresses deep concern at violence following public protests in Kenya since March 21, 2023, which resulted in the loss of life, damage to property and the interruption of certain economic activities in Nairobi,” he stated.
Faki recalled the successful conduct of the August 9, 2022, General Election and the subsequent ruling by the Supreme Court.
“The Chairperson reiterates the total solidarity with and support to the government and the people of Kenya’s efforts working towards national unity, peace and sustainability in the country,” the statement further reads.
Yesterday, for the second time Azimio supporters gathered in the streets to protest against the high cost of living and the alleged rigging of last year’s election.
The Raila led faction also blames the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission of not conducting the elections fairly and transparently as outlined in the Constitution.
Opposition leader Raila had called for bi-weekly anti-government protests to be held on Monday and Thursdays every week.
Raila and his team said the decision to call for mass protests twice a week was due to “public demand.”
