Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has asserted that the anti-government protests led by Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya Coalition are not over, stating that they have merely taken a break and will soon resume.
Speaking on Citizen TV, Senator Sifuna expressed his heartfelt sympathy for the families of those who lost their lives during the protests, calling for justice and comprehensive reforms within law enforcement agencies to prevent future occurrences of police brutality.
Last week, Azimio la Umoja staged protests across the country for three consecutive days, demanding accountability for police actions. While the coalition initially announced fresh protests for this week, they later called them off and instead held vigils to honor those who died during the demonstrations.
“We took a break from the demonstrations to mourn with the families of the victims of police brutality. It is essential for us as a nation to stand in solidarity with those affected by such tragic incidents,” Sifuna said.
However, the Senator emphasized that the pause in protests does not signify the end of the fight against police brutality. He accused Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof Kithure Kindiki of evading accountability for police actions and called for thorough investigations into human rights violations by the National Police Service.
“Kindiki is hiding behind the police, and it’s quite shameful. We demand accountability and transparency in how the police are being used to protect certain individuals,” Sifuna said.
According to Sifuna, Azimio la Umoja plans to escalate their push for justice, accountability, and comprehensive reforms within the National Police Service. He emphasized the importance of responsible and unbiased policing, ensuring the safety and protection of all Kenyans' rights.
Senator Sifuna called on the public to participate in peaceful demonstrations, asserting that their collective voices will play a vital role in holding the authorities accountable for any misconduct and driving lasting change within the security sector.
These sentiments come amidst a political crisis in the country, with President William Ruto and Azimio la Umoja's Raila Odinga appearing to be finding common ground. Signs of a possible truce emerged when the Head of State offered to meet with Mr. Odinga, hours after the opposition leader expressed his willingness to engage in talks with the President.
In addition to their call for justice and accountability, Azimio la Umoja has announced that they will hold an interdenominational prayer service in Nairobi on Friday to seek divine intervention in the current political stalemate in the country. Similar prayer services will also be held in other counties across the nation, according to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.