Kenya: Opposition party coalition plans rally at Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi April 16 /update 7

Event

The opposition Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition plans to rally at the Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi on April 16. The call for mass demonstrations is in response to the government's failure to address reform on the electoral process and lower the cost of living, among other concessions.

Security personnel will likely deploy to monitor any rally and may attempt to break up disruptive gatherings. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely near the Kamukunji Grounds. President Ruto's supporters may try to hold counterprotests near the rally site. Clashes between opposing groups of activists or between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

On April 2, Azimio announced the temporary suspension of anti-government protests, slated to occur every Monday and Thursday indefinitely. Azimio's suspension follows President Ruto's call for the protests to cease, expressing the government's willingness to negotiate by establishing a bipartisan committee to review the electoral process- one of the opposition's key demands. While accepting Ruto's call, Odinga demanded the inclusion of other issues in the agenda of the bipartisan committee, including the rising cost of living, high taxation, and the removal of subsidies. As of April 12, Ruto has not responded to Odinga's request despite Azimio's warning of resumption of protests if their demands are not met.

Protests occurred despite authorities imposing an indefinite, nationwide ban on all Azimio protests on March 26. The directive was issued after Odinga called for indefinite nationwide protests every Monday and Thursday from March 27. Protests and clashes occurred on March 27 and March 30 in several areas, including Nairobi, Kisumu, and Homa Bay counties. Some individuals reportedly engaged in vandalism and looting amid the protests; notably, the offices of Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party were set ablaze in Siaya.

Advice

Avoid all protests and large gatherings due to the risk of associated violence, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid traveling at night. Plan for delays near gathering areas. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building.