Thika Residents Reject Anti-Govt Protests

A section of Thika youth in Kiambu County rejected the anti-government protests called by Azimio leader Raila Odinga over the high cost of living, saying they were not ready to lose lives and businesses in demonstrations. Led by Zack Mwangi, a local leader, they said they will not allow protestors in the Thika streets and called on the police to help in protecting lives and property. ‘We will not allow protests in Thika. We also urge the police to come out and protect property in case some pockets of demonstrators come out,’ said Mwangi. Jacinta Waithera, a businesswoman, called on the youth to keep off the streets and engage in meaningful activities that can elevate their lives, other than taking to the streets. She said Thika has been a peaceful town with robust businesses, adding that demonstrations might hamper the drive for a stable business environment. ‘We are peaceful, and we ask the locals to remain as such. We don’t want to lose businesses which we have strived so much to grow through protests. We also ask the police to be vigilant and protect lives and property,’ Waithera said. Azimio’s leadership has since announced a three-day protest across the country, starting tomorrow and continuing through Thursday and Friday.

Source: Kenya News Agency