In a display of might, armored vehicles and military personnel from the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) patrolled Nairobi for the better part of Thursday, Dispatched from Nyayo Stadium Thursday morning, the soldiers entered the city through Tom Mboya Street where they were wildly cheered by protestors…
The KDF’s presence in the capital came a day after Members of Parliament approved their deployment within the city, Their mission was to assist the Kenyan Police in restoring order following nationwide protests that have claimed the lives of at least 23 Kenyans and left hundreds of others injured.
This deployment marks a significant departure from tradition, as the Kenya Police have historically managed protests without military involvement. Despite the heavy military presence, demonstrations persisted, The police resorted to using teargas and rubber bullets to disperse the protestors, who chanted “Ruto must go” throughout the city.
Roads leading to Parliament, which was still ringed with a yellow ribbon like a scene of crime were heavily guarded, preventing anyone from approaching the vicinity, This comes despite President William Ruto’s withdrawal of the controversial Finance Bill 2024, citing his responsiveness to the people’s concerns.
Minority Leader in the Senate, Stewart Madzayo said while addresing the press yesterday. “Even during Moi and Kenyatta eras, the army was never deployed to take over the city,” He also questioned recent statements by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua about the National Intelligence Service (NIS). Gachagua had accused NIS boss Noordin Haji of negligence, Madzayo defended Haji, stating, “The NIS boss (Noordin Haji) is a good person, and we need transparency and answers. Why use him as a scapegoat?”
