Parents in Nairobi and surrounding areas have been advised by some schools to keep their children at home on Friday due to concerns over safety. The schools are responding to the opposition's call for demonstrations, which could potentially pose a risk to the well-being of students.
The planned rallies, taking place in Nairobi and select towns, are expected to be a confrontation between opposition leaders, their supporters, and the police. This marks the official commencement of civil disobedience against the government.
Moi Educational Centre in Nairobi is among the schools that have decided to suspend classes on Friday in light of the planned Azimio protests. In a communication to parents, the school's principal, Mr. A. Musyoka, expressed concerns that the demonstrations could disrupt transportation and jeopardize the safety of students. He emphasized that the school prioritizes the well-being of learners and stated that classes would resume on Monday, July 10, 2023.
"We put the safety and security of our learners at the core of everything that we do. Learning will resume on Monday, July 10, 2023", he said.
Parents who have children commuting through the city are also worried about potential transportation disruptions, which could cause inconvenience.
Azimio la Umoja One Kenya leader, Raila Odinga, is scheduled to launch a fresh wave of anti-government protests on Friday, July 7. These protests signify the start of mass signature collection, symbolizing the withdrawal of Kenya's sovereignty from President William Ruto and all government officials.
In Nairobi, Mr. Odinga is expected to address a rally and initiate the signature drive at the historic Kamukunji grounds. However, the police issued a warning against demonstrations, stating that only a public baraza would be permitted at the venue.
Mr. Odinga explained that they are taking drastic action against President Ruto's regime due to the negative impact of his policies on the lives of Kenyans. He emphasized that the demonstrations would be peaceful and urged participants to maintain order and conduct themselves appropriately.
"Ruto is imposing taxes on us without our consent and making laws whose net effect is to make life increasingly difficult. We are here because the taxation situation in the country and the injustices that go with it can no longer be tolerated", Odinga Explained.
