Anti-government protests led by the opposition in Kenya resulted in the arrests of several protesters and three Kenyan legislators. The protests, which took place in Nairobi, called for the resignation of President William Ruto.
Despite being released, those arrested are scheduled to appear in court to face unspecified charges. The leader of the opposition, Raila Odinga, participated in the protests and vowed to hold them weekly until the President steps down or the cost of living decreases.
Odinga’s motorcade was prevented from entering the central business district, and the police dispersed the convoy several times with tear gas. In response, Odinga’s supporters threw stones at the police.
Odinga claimed that the police shot at his vehicle, and a photo of a shattered windshield was posted online by his party spokesperson. Nairobi’s police chief, Adamson Bungei, initially stated that any gathering would be considered unlawful, but later said that those arrested would be released after paying a cash bail.
Maliba Arnold, Public Policy Analyst, Nairobi, Kenya and Hon. Maina Karobia, Member of Parliament, East African Legislative Assembly joins us on The Conversation. Watch