Azimio nationwide mass action kicks off to a disappointing start in Kisumu
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Azimio nationwide mass action sets off to a disappointing start with a low turnout at Kondele, Kisumu County
Azimio nationwide mass action sets off to a disappointing start with a low turnout at Kondele, Kisumu County.
The opposition Azimio Coalition’s anti-government demonstrations in Kisumu got off to a dismal start due to the low turnout at their maiden demonstration on Friday.
A day after Azimio leader Raila Odinga told his supporters to start anti-government rallies, a modest throng showed up for the Azimio mass rally in Kisumu as businesses opened.
At Kondele, a previous flashpoint of violence, only local MCAs and a small number of supporters gathered, with many locals watching the proceedings from a distance.
Kisumu Central ODM party Chairman Seth Kanga was leading the peaceful demonstration.
“This is a peaceful demonstration, we match with dignity,” Kanga said.
Unlike the past demos when Kondele would have been a buzz with people, Friday’s protests was unusually subdued.
John Otieno, a tout plying Migosi route says he is not taking part in the demonstration for lack of motivation.
“They call us to demonstrate, but when food is ready, they eat with their children,” said Otieno.
He said most people who would have turned up in the past no longer found protests attractive.
“I fear for my life, but that’s the truth am giving you, even majority of people you see standing a part, they hold a similar opinion like mine but they can’t talk,” said Otieno.
The businesses opened up, defying ODM party officials who mobilized support o Thursday.
Those still loyal to the party however said Odinga’s call cannot be ignored.
Those who turned up converged in Kondele area where they started matching as they headed to the county commissioner’s office.
Samuel Akatch said he has never failed to show up on any demonstration called by Raila since 2007.
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“I am here to show solidarity with Raila, I can’t fail him, I feel the pain he has for this country,” he said.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Ochieng Owili who joined the demonstration that is now heading towards town centre.
“We must lead from the front, we must tell our people to stand up and denounce this illegitimate government,” said Owili.
There were no police officers on sight as the demonstrators, some walking, others riding on motorbikes started a march to the city centre.
The protesters intended to present a memorandum to Kisumu County Commissioner.
Meanwhile, the road leading to State House Kisumu still remained closed with police officers in anti riot gear manning all the routes leading the State residence which houses the President while on tour of the region.
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