A section of Nairobi expressway vandalised by protestors

The economy is losing Sh 3 billion daily from the ongoing anti-government protests led by Azimio and its leader Raila Odinga, according to the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA).

Every time the country’s economic engines are closed for fear of theft and destruction from people who are taking advantage of the demonstrations, occasions unnecessary losses to the tune of about Sh3 billion daily,” KEPSA said in a statement on Wednesday, July 12.

Kepsa warns that the country cannot afford the prevailing political activities, owing to the harsh economic times and slowed economic growth.

“For a struggling economy, reeling from the effects of a prolonged drought, general elections, and economic slowdown last year and compounded by general global economic challenges, Kenya can ill-afford the political activities currently at play,” it said.

Massive countrywide demonstrations occurred yesterday and in some areas, properties were looted or vandalised. Four people were also shot dead in Mlolongo.

A section of Nairobi Nairobi Expressway at the Mlolongo section was also vandalized by angry demonstrators.

“Businesses provide goods and services to individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of their political affiliations, and must be protected from any political machinations.  By considerable measure, they are also a barometer of our economic stability, and their closure is an affront to Kenya’s national economic aspirations,” KEPSA said.

Public Service Vehicles joined the demonstrations on Wednesday in protest over the directive by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to re-test drivers. Transport and also the increased cost of fuel. Transport was also paralyzed in several parts of the country including Nyeri, Kakamega, Nairobi, Migori, and Kisumu as matatu operators downed their tools.

Azimio has been criticizing the government over the increased cost of living and the new Finanace Bill with Raila Odinga warning that the protests will go on a weekly basis until Ruto’s government addresses the grievances.