Bishop Blocks Azimio From Addressing Congregation Ahead Of Monday Protests

The politicians were directed to keep their message light and keep off from delivering messages related to protests.

Azimio's Raila Odinga, however, did not attend the Ruiru Sunday service. It was also not clear if the Azimio principals had notified the Kiambu-based church of their visit. 

Raila's last post on social media was made in the morning hours of April 2, whereby he wrote "We are all ready and set for Mega Monday" ahead of the Monday round of demonstrations.

The leaders were expected to provide more informational updates regarding the planned demonstrations which were initially touted by Raila to be the mother of all demonstrations.

“Let me tell you, on Monday, we shall have the mother of all demonstrations in Nairobi. We are undeterred and I urge Kenyans to turn out in larger numbers and from all corners to champion for their rights peacefully," he stated on March 31, 2023.

Despite Azimio's promises for peaceful demonstrations, the protests have been characterized by violence which included protesters clashing with teargassing police officers and the vandalization as well as looting of property from shops and retail stores across the country.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Saturday, April 1 warned Raila of the consequences of continuing the demonstrations, which he said had degenerated into chaos and violence.

“The laws of this country are clear. What Odinga is leading are no longer demonstrations. It is post-election violence, mugging, theft, robbery and robbery with violence. Those are felonists.

“If they care, to look at the penal code, [they would know that] the consequences are extremely heavy. Monday (April 3), the Government of the Republic of Kenya will assert its authority in protecting life and property and upholding the rule of law. I am just giving that caution to those young people that it is not going to be business as usual. It cannot happen, and it will not happen. It is wrong, it is immoral and it is unacceptable," he stated.

His remarks were followed by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations' (DCI) arrest of 14 suspects in Kisumu and Migori counties following the violence witnessed in those areas.

“I want to caution those young men, who have been taking advantage of the violence unleashed by Raila to steal property, mug people and loot property, that Monday (April 3) is their last day to do so," he addressed during a church event in Malava, Kakamega County.