Some residents entering the city centre through Muthurwa market by foot following heavy traffic on Jogoo road and other routes. [Pkemoi Ngenoh, Standard]
As calm and normalcy continues to return across the country a day after Azimio's protests, a section of residents from the Mount Kenya region have raised divergent views on whether the protests are fruitful.
Speaking to KTN News on Tuesday, March 21, some residents of Nyeri town supported the protests that paralysed movement and businesses in major towns, stating that the Kenya Kwanza government has so far failed in delivering its promises to Kenyans including lowering the cost of living.
Dnezel Ngala, a resident in the town raised concerns faulted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for publicly stating that unga prices had dropped to Sh170 yet prices at the shelves remain Sh200 and above at most retail stores.
"I support the demonstrations since it seems it is the only language that the government understands. These leaders need to come to the ground and see the actual food prices. What they claim while addressing gatherings is untrue," Ngala stated.
However, Moraya Nderitu, a Nyeri businessman lamented on the effects of the demonstrations, saying that the worst affected was the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) sector who were forced to ground their vehicles that ply the Nairobi - Nyeri route.
"In any given day, by 3pm we always have at least fifteen 14-seater matatus plying the Nyeri - Nairobi route. But yesterday we didn't even do half the number since most matatu owners decided to ground their vehicles. Remember this is a sector that has employed hundreds of youths locally," he said.
Monday's demonstrations affected the public transport system in major towns leaving thousands stranded after failing to get means to or from work.
Businesses also suffered losses as most remained closed for the day.
On Monday, Odinga insisted that the opposition will continue to push for lowering of prices of basic commodities, and will hold weekly demos.
