Malala leads peaceful demos in Kakamega

By Peter Ochieng

United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala on Wednesday morning led peaceful protests in Kakamega town.

The former Kakamega Senator, leading a group of residents said the demos were organised to counter anti-government protests, called by Azimio leadership across the country.

"We want peace. Kakamega is for peace," he declared.

The opposition called for the demos with a view of forcing President William Ruto's hand into addressing the high cost of living, and repeal of the Finance Act, 2023 among other demands.

But Malala, who unsuccessfully contested for the Kakamega County gubernatorial seat in 2022 urged the opposition to give the president time to deliver on his mandate.

"Please give the president time to do his job," he said.

The vocal former legislature claimed Azimio leader Raila Odinga is using demos, to blackmail president Ruto into a political handshake.

Azimio demos are on today, tomorrow and Friday.

The government has declared the protests illegal.

Last week, president Ruto said the demos were illegal, vowing to ensure that they do not happen going foward.