NAIROBI (KAAB TV) – Kenya witnessed widespread violence and chaos on Wednesday as opposition demonstrators took to the streets, leading to a complete halt in transportation and business activities across major cities.
Supporters of the opposition coalition, known as Azimio la Umoja or the One Kenya Coalition Party, vented their anger against the government, prompting a heavy-handed response from the police, who employed tear gas and live ammunition to disperse the crowds.
The protests were ignited by opposition leader Raila Odinga, who vowed to overthrow President William Ruto’s government.
In Nairobi, the capital city, clashes erupted between the police and protesters, resulting in the vandalism of parts of the recently constructed expressway that links to the airport.
This led to hundreds of stranded motorists, while reports from local television indicate that at least one person was feared dead and another injured as police confronted demonstrators, who set fire to a police vehicle on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway.
In Kisumu, protesters lit bonfires on major roads, causing a disruption in public transportation, with passengers left stranded.
As the turmoil unfolded, businesses in major cities remained closed, as business owners feared for their safety amidst the escalating violence.
Reports from various hospitals indicate that at least seven people were shot dead and more than a dozen injured across the country as the police resorted to using live ammunition to quell the protests.
Responding to the chaotic situation, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki denounced the demonstrations that spiraled out of control in various parts of the country.
Kindiki warned that all individuals involved, both directly and indirectly, would face legal consequences for their actions.
“The Government has tonight mobilized all the law enforcement agencies of the State and the institutions of our country’s criminal justice system to conclude investigations urgently and proceed to the arrest and prosecution of all those involved in the planning and execution of the crimes committed today, including those who funded or otherwise aided or abetted the offenders,” added Kindiki.
However, opposition leader Raila Odinga remains resolute in his determination to continue the demonstrations, demanding that President William Ruto listen to their grievances to prevent further unrest.
Odinga emphasized the need for dialogue, stating during a late Wednesday press conference, “This time around there is no moving on until Ruto shows a readiness to listen and respect the people. People deserve a deal and not bullets or teargas.”