Why Maandamano are taking place in Kenya

Raila Odinga, the leader of the opposition called for mass action against the government on 20th March 2023. He claims the August 8th general elections were not free and fair since out of the 7 commissioners appointed in the IEBC, 4 commissioners disputed the results. President Ruto, however, said the elections were free and fair and he won the elections. Raila Odinga has now decided to take mass action against the government every Monday and Thursday. The peaceful demonstrations have turned violent after the police tear-gassed the protesters leading to a state of unrest in the country.

Odinga also wants the recruitment process of the IEBC commissioners to stop and to be involved in the process since he is a major stakeholder in the elections. President Ruto, however, has brushed off the demands saying he will follow the recruitment process as per the constitution. Odinga says the demonstration will continue every Monday and Thursday until his demands have been met.

Odinga has also addressed the high cost of living in Kenya which has been contributed to by the removal of various subsidies on different commodities in the country, for example, fuel and flour. The high cost of living in Kenya is troubling most of the residents, with the majority not able to afford basic needs. President Ruto has, however, held his ground saying he will not subsidize consumption but rather production in order to lower the cost of living.