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Former Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Industrialization, Trade and Enterprise Development, David Osiany, has issued a warning to the government, stating that the recent killings and abductions will only embolden the youth.

His comments come amidst Tuesday’s protests, during which a section of the Kenyan Parliament caught fire after protestors gained access to the building.

Osiany on killings

The breach occurred shortly after the Finance Bill 2024 passed the committee stage, with 195 Members of Parliament voting in favour. Following the vote, the day’s session was adjourned and is expected to resume on Wednesday.

Protestors stormed the building moments after the Azimio brigade walked out of Parliament in protest. The Azimio leaders declared their complete rejection of the Bill, withdrawing their proposed amendments in response to public demand for the entire Bill to be rejected.

Osiany held that the killings would only make the people braver and urged the Inspector General and President to change tactics.

“I said it earlier, that the killings and abductions will only embolden the young people. Inspector General NPS and President William Ruto, please change tact. retreat,” he posted on his X account.

He further stressed that the public’s voices should not be dismissed as mere social media posts and criticized Kenya Kwanza for being arrogant and incoherent.

“Accept that these voices were not mere social media tweets. Accept that KK leading voices in this quest were arrogant and incoherent and that sections of this bill were utterly anti-citizens. Listen to the loud voices and disengage,” he added.

Osiany also called for the release of Gabriel Oguda and other activists opposing the Finance Bill 2024.

“Meanwhile, #FreeOguda and all other social media advocates against the bill. Let this pass and preserve the dignity and sanctity of our institutions. Sometimes you win by letting things pass. This is one such moment. #RejectFinanceBill2024.”

His comments are similar to those by Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir, who expressed concerns over the growing discontent among Kenyans and urged elected leaders to listen to their constituents.

Tuesday’s protest in Mombasa

On Tuesday, protestors gathered at Governor Nassir’s office to present their grievances. The governor welcomed them and listened to their concerns, acknowledging the pain and frustration felt by many Kenyans and noting the rising public anger.

Elected on an Orange Democratic Movement ticket, Governor Nassir condemned the recent abductions of youth involved in the protests and urged the police to adhere to constitutional principles.

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