(MENAFN) Raila Odinga, Kenya's opposition leader, has called on his supporters to join countrywide protests to demand that President William Ruto lowers the cost of living. During a rally in Nairobi on Sunday, Odinga accused Ruto of running the country with contempt and putting many Kenyans in a difficult situation. He urged his supporters to come out in large numbers and participate in the demonstrations to demand change.
The upcoming protests have caused concern among business owners in the capital Nairobi, with many expected to close their shops as tensions rise. Responding to Odinga's call, Ruto promised to protect all protesters and those who will not participate in the demonstrations. He urged Odinga not to incite violence in the country.
Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki also assured Kenyans that the police would protect the rights of all citizens, whether they join the protests or continue with their day-to-day activities. He called on protesters to exercise their constitutional right to demonstrate peacefully and to respect the rights of others. Kindiki warned that anyone who incites public disorder or breaches the peace on Monday, March 20, will be prosecuted.
The cost of living has been a major concern for many Kenyans, with the prices of basic commodities such as food and fuel skyrocketing in recent months. The high cost of living has pushed many people into poverty, and there have been calls for the government to take action to address the situation.
The opposition has been critical of Ruto's handling of the economy, accusing him of failing to implement policies that would help lower the cost of living. The protests on Monday are aimed at putting pressure on the government to take action to address the situation and improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
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