Opposition party Azimio La Umoja is expected to hold a public engagement forum today at Kamukunji grounds.The rally will be led by Azimio leader Raila Odinga who will be returning to the country after a long break in Poland.
Majority leader Peter Imwatok said they will accord Raila a grand welcome on arrival at the JKIA, then join him in a grand procession to the people’s Baraza at the Kamkunji Grounds.
Police said on Tuesday that Azimio La Umoja coalition is free to hold their consultative meeting in Nairobi.
Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei said the coalition had notified them of the planned meeting at Kamkunji Grounds in Muthurwa area.
Bungei said the police had made arrangements to ensure the meeting is peaceful and successful.
NARC Kenya leader Martha Karua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka will be among the leaders attending the forum to debunk the tax hikes.
“We are on the ground to ensure the rally is peaceful. We will provide the needed security,” said Bungei.
Dozens of police officers were seen on city streets and the venue of the meeting.
The police pronouncement came ahead of the planned rally to be attended by top Azimio leaders and their supporters over Finance Act, 2023.
Previous street protests – which were called off to make way for the inter-party talks – have always ended in bloody running battles between police and opposition supporters.
In most cases, police have used excessive force to disperse demonstrators. But the police promised the meeting will be peaceful.
Ruto has since issued a warning to opposition leaders, saying his government will not allow violent protests and destruction of property.
“I have no problem with Raila Odinga. I have no problem with him organising protests. There are protests here in Paris. I have just asked Raila and the company not to engage in violence and destruction of property. This is all because we are a democracy,” Ruto said.
By Hallan Emodia