Thousands join opposition protest in Kenya amid growing discontent over political violence

Thousands participated yesterday in Kenya in an opposition rally led by Edwin Sifuna, who has recently emerged as one of the leading contenders against President William Ruto in the 2027 elections, amid an atmosphere of calm despite growing violence in the country.

Sifuna, 44, has succeeded in mobilizing significant support by capitalizing on rising anger over corruption and political violence. However, his critics argue that he lacks the necessary experience to win the presidency and defeat the current president, William Ruto.

The rally began with a visit to a church in central Nairobi, where hundreds of Sifuna’s supporters gathered amid a heavy police presence. The procession then moved through the streets of the capital, led by the “Lindi Mwananchi” opposition movement, which includes another candidate for the upcoming 2027 presidential election, James Orengo.

Sifuna pointed to his watch, signaling that Ruto’s term was nearing its end. Addressing his supporters, he said, “Kenya says, Mr. Ruto, your time is up. They say your rule should be limited to a single term.”

The march concluded in eastern Nairobi, where thousands gathered at a sports stadium to listen to speeches by presidential aspirants.

In recent weeks, Sifuna has undertaken several tours across the country, and his supporters and journalists have frequently been attacked by armed men. Kenyan politicians often rely on security elements for protection and to attack opponents, sometimes resulting in bloody violence.

Local media reported on Saturday that hundreds of men attacked a gathering of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in the Embu area north of Nairobi and clashed with police.

Human Rights Watch announced this week that six people were killed and dozens injured in attacks on civilian and political gatherings in recent months. Karen Kaniza Nantolia, deputy director of the organization’s African branch, stated that “the escalating spiral of violence as the election period approaches threatens to bring back the human rights abuses witnessed in Kenya during the last elections,” calling for an end to the culture of impunity.