Friday is shaping up to be a pivotal day as tensions escalate between the police and Opposition supporters, who have started anti-government demonstrations across Nairobi and other regions of the country.
In Nairobi, the Azimio coalition, led by Raila Odinga, will hold a large-scale rally at Kamukunji Grounds to commemorate Saba Saba Day and mark what they call the country’s “Third Liberation”.
Odinga has boldly declared his intention to launch a campaign of “defiance and civil disobedience” against President William Ruto’s administration, which he accuses of oppressing the people.
He aims to mobilize public support and denounce what he sees as punitive measures imposed by the current regime.
Last week, the Azimio coalition announced its plan to initiate a mass signature collection drive as a symbolic gesture of withdrawing their consent from the current administration, particularly targeting officials like William Ruto and elected leaders who supported the contentious Finance Act of 2023.
Following the gathering at Kamukunji Grounds, the Azimio leaders, accompanied by their supporters, intend to march to the Nairobi Central Business District. However, law enforcement officers have issued warnings against such actions.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Adamson Bungei stated that only the Kamukunji meeting had been authorized, explicitly prohibiting any other assemblies elsewhere.
Raila Odinga has urged citizens to join him in resisting what he refers to as “dictatorship” and to reject the newly implemented taxes that have exacerbated the burdens faced by Kenyans.
He emphatically stated that they refuse to endure suffering in silence, emphasizing their determination to stand united and confront the challenges they face.
As of Friday morning, the situation remained relatively calm in most areas of the city, including Kamukunji Grounds, where the Saba Saba rally is scheduled.
However, security measures have been heightened in opposition strongholds, and many businesses have opted to remain closed.
