Wednesday Showdown: 3 Major Protests Scheduled (List)

Wednesday Showdown: 3 Major Protests Scheduled (List)

On Wednesday, July 12, Kenyans should be prepared for significant disruptions, as the nation anticipates three significant disturbances in different sectors. These demonstrations will undoubtedly have a significant effect on daily operations.

The occurrence of these concurrent events can be attributed to Kenyans’ disillusionment with the rising cost of living and contentious tax increases.

It is anticipated that the strike notices issued by various key stakeholders will also paralyze the transportation sector, compelling Kenyans to find alternative ways to get to work.

Association of taxi drivers rallies

On Wednesday, July 12, taxi-hailing apps proclaimed a nationwide strike due to numerous problems plaguing the transportation industry.

The leadership of the taxi-hailing association highlighted several major issues they intend to address, including insecurity, escalating fuel prices, and pay rates established by digital companies.

Taxi drivers in Kenya have joined up for a ride-hailing service. Uber drivers in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, chant slogans and dance along the streets during a strike on August 2, 2016, in response to the company’s pricing cuts in the face of rising competition from similar local firms.

During the strike, all taxi drivers were issued a stern warning to keep their vehicles off the road. The leadership maintained that the boycott would continue until the government met its demands.

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“Do not attempt to drive your vehicle on the road. A source informed GossipA2Z, “We are warning you not to test the waters on the day of the strike.”

Protests from PSVs

Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) issued a 21-day strike notice on June 21, 2023, in response to the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) mandatory re-testing exercise. The deadline will expire on Wednesday, July 12th.

The PSV operators, backed by long-distance drivers and boda boda operators, argued that the mandatory re-test was punitive and intended to frustrate motorists.

They desired participation in the decision-making process to ensure positive adjustments within the sector.

Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LODDCA) issued the following statement: “The association calls for constructive dialogue between the Ministry of Transport, the NTSA, and stakeholders to address concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions that prioritize safety while supporting driver well-being.”

Azimio Protest

During the Saba Saba protests, Azimio la Umoja Raila Odinga proclaimed the continuation of his call for civil disobedience with nationwide demonstrations. Issues such as punitive taxes and the high cost of living, he warned the Kenya Kwanza administration, were non-negotiable.

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National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi stated that there will be more severe demonstrations across the country on July 12 of next week.

He added, “Today (July 7) marked the beginning of this new wave of civil disobedience and mass action.”

While making his remarks, the opposition leader advocated for the collection of 10 million signatures, a statement that drew criticism from Kenya Kwanza leaders who argued that the signatures were insufficient to remove President William Ruto from office.

Martha Karua, the principal of Azimio, clarified that the initiative was intended to serve as a tally of Kenyans who supported anti-government demonstrations.

Wednesday Showdown: 3 Major Protests Scheduled (List)

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