Just hours after issuing the original directive, the governor of Kisumu in Western Kenya, Raila Odinga’s stronghold, Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has reversed his earlier decision to suspend anti-government protests in the county.
Bowing to pressure from a variety of sources, including Azimio la Umoja chief, Raila Odinga, other coalition lawmakers, and residents, Prof Nyong’o said he was heartened by supporters’ determination to continue the protests.
In a subsequent statement, the county executive stated that peaceful protests will resume on Thursday as planned.
“We, therefore, urge you to turn out in large numbers and join other Kenyans in the liberation struggle,” he said.
His change of heart occurred just moments after Mr Odinga insisted that the countrywide protests would go ahead as planned.
The governor had previously stated that protestors would join demonstrators in Nairobi. The action came after the previous two anti-government protests in Kisumu left a trail of property destruction and two deaths. Prof Nyong’o stated that the choice was made after consultations with Azimio’s national leadership.
The suspension was opposed by Mr Odinga’s followers in Kisumu. Some Obunga residents have informed the police of their plans for today’s protests.
Prof Nyong’o was also chastised by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja for exporting his demonstrations to Nairobi.
