Kenyan opposition leader threatens nationwide protests over high cost of living

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - Kenya’s opposition leader Raila Odinga gave the government a 14-day ultimatum Wednesday to lower taxes and reduce the cost of living or face nationwide protests.

Odinga made the announcement at a national prayer rally at Jevanjee Gardens in the nation’s capital of Nairobi that was attended by hundreds of supporters, top principals from the opposition party and religious leaders.

"Our country is in a bad state, and that is why we are saying only God can help us," said Odinga.

"We have complained about rising taxes and the withdrawal of subsidies to food and education in the middle of drought and famine, which was reckless and heartless. Consequently, the subsidies must be restored, and the cost of basic commodities and taxes must come down in the next 14 days,” Odinga added after interdenominational prayers by different clergy members.

Supporters carried signs and chanted slogans demanding lower taxes and a reduced cost of living.

Some carried empty plates and cooking pots to highlight the struggles of ordinary Kenyans who are struggling to make ends meet.

“These empty plates are a reminder that many Kenyans are going hungry due to the high cost of living, and the opposition's demands for lower taxes and reduced prices for basic commodities are crucial for easing the financial burden in Kenya on ordinary citizens,” businessman Wakai Benard told Anadolu.

Kenya has been grappling with the cost of living, particularly for commodities such as cooking flour, electricity, fuel, sugar and milk -- whose prices have shot up in recent months.

Odinga's Azimio political party has been pushing the government to address the issue and ease the financial burden on Kenyans.

The ultimatum by Odinga comes amid growing concerns about the state of the economy as the East African country grapples with inflation, with the cost of food and other essential items skyrocketing.

The move is likely to increase pressure on President William Ruto’s government to take action to ease the burden on Kenyans who have protested the high cost of living in recent days.