Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko on Friday, March 31, offered to pay the bills of the youth hurt during the bi-weekly countrywide protests organised by Azimio la Umoja.
In a statement, Sonko stated that despite being part of the Kenya Kwanza Alliance, he was willing to foot the bills and enable the injured youth, who were supporting the rival coalition, to go home to their families.
"I know there are so many poor families which cannot afford to meet the burial expenses of any of their loved ones, but I will still help bring home those who have lost their lives back to their families so that they can bury them as I support the children and widows left behind," he stated.
He referred to a similar time in 2017 when he paid the Ksh263,341 hospital bill for a youth who was stranded in the hospital.
"I remember very vividly in 2017 when we had similar demonstrations. I had to personally cater for medical bills of some youths here in Nairobi, Migori, and Kisumu who were forgotten in various hospitals with very huge bills due to serious injuries," he added.
Sonko noted that he was touched by what was happening to the Kenyan youth especially those on the street during the demonstrations.
He, however, questioned why the youth were participating in the protests consequently ruining the businesses.
The former governor urged the youth to avoid situations where they may lose their lives adding, "Even though you are diehard supporters, please think of your family members who will bear the cost if you are hurt or die."
In the Monday and Thursday protests announced by Azimio party leader Raila Odinga, several people lost their lives with numerous pieces of property vandalised, burnt, and broken into.
On Friday, March 31, the National Police Service (NPS) condemned the attacks on police officers, members of the public, and the destruction of property during the demonstrations.
"NPS assures the public of their security and safety, and remains focused on executing our mandate to serve and protect," Inspector General Japhet Koome stated.
"It is worth noting that the right to picket does not give the demonstrators any right to destroy property, cause a disturbance, or attack police officers," he added.
