In a show of dissent and frustration, anti-government protesters have taken to the streets in what has been termed as “Maandamano” – a Swahili word for demonstrations.
These large-scale protests have escalated over recent days, with citizens voicing their concerns and demanding change.
The movement reflects the growing discontent and calls for reform within the country.
This article provides live updates on the ongoing Maandamano protests, highlighting the key events, demands, and potential implications.
Maandamano live updates
July 12, 2023
Nairobi, Kenya
Anti-government protesters took to the streets of Kenya on Wednesday, July 12, in a series of demonstrations against the government of President William Ruto.
The protests, which were organized by the opposition coalition Azimio la Umoja, were sparked by a number of issues, including rising prices, corruption, and a lack of transparency in government.
In Nairobi, protesters gathered in the city center and marched to the parliament building. They chanted slogans and carried placards calling for Kenyatta to resign.
There were also protests in other parts of the country, including Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nakuru. In Kisumu, protesters clashed with police, and there were reports of tear gas being used.
The demonstrations come at a time when Kenyatta is facing increasing pressure from the opposition. Azimio la Umoja has been gaining in popularity in recent months, and there are growing calls for Ruto to step down.
The government has condemned the protests, calling them “illegal” and “unnecessary.” However, the protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met.
Here are some live updates from the protests:
- 10:00 AM: Protesters gather in Nairobi’s city center.
- 11:00 AM: Protesters march to the parliament building.
- 12:00 PM: There are clashes between protesters and police in Kisumu.
- 1:00 PM: Tear gas is used in Kisumu.
- 2:00 PM: Protesters continue to demonstrate in Nairobi and other parts of the country.
BREAKING : Maandamano Protesters at Mlolongo have overpowered Kenya Police.
Ni miguu niponye as police retreat after running out of bullets and teargas.
Raila Odinga remains the GOAT of street protests as I had mentioned earlier.|#Maandamano #tumechoka #Maandamanowednesday | pic.twitter.com/E4LKrNmW0A
— Karen Wanjiku HSC (@WanjikuHSC) July 12, 2023
Found myself in Industrial area Nakuru. Here's a glimpse of angry citizens.
Anyways a hungry man is an angry man#Tumechoka #Maandamano #Maandamanowednesday pic.twitter.com/XqWZDkhCBT— Mc.Mimi (@kinuthia_alvin) July 12, 2023
Kisii and Nyamira residents decided to do it better than Luos in Kisumu and Migori.
It's not yet half time but all the police have disappeared.
I just fear for Osoro, Raila Odinga has made his people turn against him badly. #Maandamanowednesday#Tumechoka pic.twitter.com/Avfgk6M3ar— The Government Critic 🇰🇪 (@magwaz3) July 12, 2023
Aftermath of the mayhem on the Nairobi Expressway #MaandamanoWednesday pic.twitter.com/429cnO1zA6
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 12, 2023
The situation is still developing, and it is unclear how long the protests will continue.
We will continue to update this article with the latest information.