A major clash between the proponents of the anti-government protests and police is expected to play out today even as government dared the opposition to make good their threat despite spirited push to devolved demonstrations to sub-county level across the country.
Yesterday, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki and the Inspector General of Police ruled out any unauthorised picketing taking queue from president William Ruto who warned against anarchy.
On the other hand, opposition leader and Azimio One Kenya coalition boss Raila Odinga and his co-principals remained adamant that they will not be subdued to submission saying the sovereign authority belongs to the people.
“Freedom of association and the right to demonstrate does not include the right to cause mayhem and loot property…For those threatening to make the country ungovernable through mayhem, looting, chaos, and bloodshed on Wednesday, we dare you.” Kindiki said.
The occurrence of these simultaneous events is attributed to the disillusionment felt by Kenyans regarding the soaring cost of living and contentious tax hikes.
These demonstrations are likely to have a considerable impact on day-to-day operations with the aftermath projected to be bigger than the previous protests.
An early morning spot check by The Informer Media Group today reveal most businesses have remained unusually closed while motorists stayed away from the Central Business District in anticipation of possible chaos.
To compound already bleak situation, the strike notices issued by various key stakeholders are also expected to paralyse the transport sector, forcing Kenyans to seek alternative means to head to work.
For instance, Taxi-hailing apps announced a nationwide strike on Wednesday over various issues ailing the transport sector.
The leadership of the taxi-hailing association highlighted several key concerns that they seek to address, which include; insecurity, escalating fuel prices, and pay rates set by digital companies.
Their leaders issued a strict warning to all taxi-hailing drivers to keep their cars off the road during the strike, while they argued that the strike would continue until their demands are met by the government.
On June 21, 2023, Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) issued a 21-day strike notice over the mandatory re-testing exercise conducted by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the deadline set to lapse tomorrow.
Supported by long-distance drivers and boda boda operators, the PSV operators argued that the mandatory re-testing was punitive and aimed at frustrating motorists. They sought to be involved in the decision-making process in a bid to guarantee positive changes within the sector.
“The association calls for constructive dialogue between the Ministry of Transport, the NTSA, and stakeholders to address concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions that prioritize safety while supporting drivers’ well-being.” Read part of a statement by the Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LODDCA).
Yet there is the Azimio la Umoja mega protest threat.
During the Saba Saba demonstrations, Raila announced nationwide protests that would continue his clarion call for civil disobedience. He warned the Kenya Kwanza administration that issues such as punitive taxes and the high cost of living were non-negotiable.
“And come next week Wednesday, we’re going to have more serious demonstrations across the country.” National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi announced last week