Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Sunday, July 16, gave credence to earlier reports that President William Ruto was holding crisis talks to avert protests planned by the opposition.
Sakaja, who was speaking during a church service at AIPCA Bahati Cathedral, remarked that on Monday and Tuesday, the President will be holding high-level meetings to make sure the protests planned for Wednesday, July 19, do not happen.
He further noted that he was in constant communication with the Head of State on how to make sure trade was not disrupted in Kenya and Nairobi in particular.
The former Nairobi Senator further hinted that Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen was part of the circle helping the President avert the protests.
“Murkomen spoke about something he is privy to. We have Monday and Tuesday and I know the President has the capability and wisdom and is working for the interest of the country,” he explained.
While calling upon Raila Odinga to halt demonstrations, Sakaja disagreed with Kenya Kwanza politicians who were asking the police to clamp down on protestors.
“This weekend, I have buried the 10th person from protests. Even if they were on the wrong side, they are not our enemies,” the Governor added.
He noted that he was in constant communication with the President to find a peaceful end to the cycle of protests.
Sakaja also vowed to prevent recruitment of youth to take part in the protests warning, “We are ready to do what it takes to protect lives and to protect livelihoods.”
On his part, Murkomen stated that the Azimio coalition had a chance to air their grievances through Parliament
“The president put the ball in your court. You have a chance to come back for the parliamentary bipartisan talks.
“There is a 2-day window for self-reflection and on Wednesday find it in you to call off the protests,” he sent a message to Raila.
