Opposition leaders accuse gov't of plans to disrupt June 25 protests

Speaking at separate functions, the leaders alleged the deployment of goons to infiltrate the march, demanding that the police be accountable for all security and safety measures for those participating.

With about three days until the memorial march for victims of the 2024 Anti-Finance Bill protests, the opposition has lashed out at government agencies for planning to disrupt the event.

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka called on the police to ensure the safety of all those who will take part in the march, in solidarity with the families who lost their loved ones during the protests.

"We do not expect the police to be trigger-happy again next Thursday because if they are, they will be held responsible. I want to ask Kenyans to take note of every trigger-happy policeman,” Kalonzo said.

Jubilee Party deputy leader Fred Matiang’i expressed concerns about emerging threats ahead of the protests.

"I am concerned about the threats I have had. That, you know, there's going to be looting, there's going to be breaking into shops. How do you know? No one has called for that violence. Perhaps the government is actually agitating or the government is planning violence against the demonstrators,” said Matiang’i.

On his part, DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa argued that the protests are constitutional, hence should not be stopped by government.

"The right to protest does not depend on the generosity of the government; it is a right guaranteed by the constitution, and all Kenyans should be allowed to come out and honor the heroes,” said Wamalwa.

On his part, Siaya Governor James Orengo accused President William Ruto of dictating the implementation of the Constitution, while outlining the need not just to compensate the victims’ families but also to implement the ten-point agenda.

"The most important point that Raila made was that there was to be justice and accountability apart from just the compensation, but we have begun the other way round, and we have gotten it wrong because we are offering cash instead of justice to the victims and their families,” said Orengo.

The second memorial of the 2024 protests against the Finance Bill is expected to be marked on Thursday.