South Africa and Kenya are bracing for a tense Monday ahead of planned protests with opposition parties in both countries having asked people to stay off work.
Opposition parties in Kenya and South Africa are leading protests, calling for people to stay off work.
In South Africa, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party is demanding the resignation of President Cyril Ramaphosa due to concerns about the economy, corruption, and power cuts.
The EFF has called for a national shutdown, but it is uncertain how much support they will receive. To ensure the safety of key infrastructure during the planned protests, several thousand soldiers have been deployed across the country.
Meanwhile, in Kenya, opposition leader Raila Odinga is planning countrywide protests against President William Ruto and his government, citing high living costs and an alleged illegitimate presidency.
Security officers are present around key government buildings in the capital city, Nairobi, amidst fears of violence.
Although Odinga has promised peaceful demonstrations, the police have warned of decisive action against those who breach the peace. President Ruto has dismissed the protests as unnecessary and accused Odinga of threatening the country with violence and chaos, despite his claims for peaceful protests.
Also, Kenya Airways announced it will close its booking offices in Kisumu and Johannesburg South Africa on Monday, March 20, 2023.
The company said the closure has been occasioned by the planned opposition protests in the two cities. The offices will reopen on Tuesday, March 21.