The Kenya Railways has suspended operations in major parts of Nairobi City following demonstrations against the Finance Act 2023. Kenya’s opposition has called for a three- day demonstration to push the government to lower the cost of living among other reforms.
In a statement, Kenya Railways said it is taking caution following results from past demonstrations where its assets were targeted. “This is a precautionary measure arising from recent incidents where our stations were vandalized and trains stoned, putting passengers’ lives at great risk,” said the corporation in a statement.
The suspension affects the Nairobi Commuter rail service trains serving between Nairobi Central station and Lukenya, Syokimau, Embakasi Village, Ruiru, Kahawa West and Limuru.
Commutter Passenger Service between Nairobi Terminus and Ngong station will also be affected. Kenya Railways management also noted the measures taken will also ensure safety of passengers on the affected routes. It said it will advise the public once normal services resume.
Several traders closed their shops in major towns on Wednesday following a call for peaceful demonstration by Azimio Coalition. The demonstration is expected to continue on Thursday and Friday affecting operations in various sectors.
COST OF PROTESTS
The government ordered closure of schools in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu for safety of leaners. The Kenya Private Sector Association (KEPSA) places losses resulting from the demonstrations at Sh3 billion on a day.
KEPSA attributes the losses to looting, destruction, and damage of property. “All 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 loses to the tune of about Sh3 billion daily,” Kepsa said.
“For a struggling economy, reeling from the effects of 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,” Kepsa noted.
On Monday, thirteen foreign envoys based in Nairobi said they stand ready to support the parties in their efforts to find constructive and peaceful solutions.
“We recognize the daily hardship faced by many Kenyans and urge all parties to table their concerns through a meaningful dialogue and resolve their differences peacefully to build the nation together, ensuring no further loss of life.”
The Ambassadors and High Commissioners from Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, Ukraine, United States, Finland, Ireland, Norway, Switzerland and United Kingdom said they are also concerned use of live rounds and destruction of property during recent destruction.
Kenya Railways Corporation losses hit KSh 24.2 billion (kenyanwallstreet.com)
