Machakos town deserted following antigovernment protests

Machakos,

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

KNA by Roselyne Kavoo/William Musyoki

Tension remained high in Machakos town at the start of the three-day anti -government protests that kicked off today.

The town that is usually bustling with life and activities remains deserted with majority of the businesses closed.

At the bus terminus, a spot check by KNA revealed only a few Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) available, paralysing transport.

Commuters were stranded today morning due to the shortage of matatus.

Chairman of the Matatu sector at the Machakos bus park Nicholas Muema expressed his concern over the high cost of fuel and asked the government to reduce the prices to cushion Kenyans from the escalating inflation.

He supported the protests and asked the police to exercise restraint when dealing with the demonstrators.

“The protesters have a right to air their grievances through the demonstrations, the police should not use force because it will escalate tensions,” added Muema.

Shadrack Ndusa,a trader however condemned the manner in which the protests were being done leading to loss of lives and property.

Ndusa said the mass action was hurting the economy and asked Kenyans to shun the protests.

“The economy is in a very bad state as Kenyans we should prioritize peace,” said the trader.

His words were echoed by another resident Alice Mwikali who called on the government to hold talks with the opposition to solve the issues facing Kenyans.

She said the high cost of living was a burden to ordinary Kenyans who found it challenging to meet their basic needs.