Kenya's Turmoil: The End of the Road for UDA?

 On June 27, 2024, the aftermath of the nationwide protests on June 25 left many Kenyans disheartened, which is ironic given the drama that unfolded across the country. For those who think the unrest is nearing its end, it’s time to reconsider. The government’s actions continue to fuel protests, with reports of excessive force, including live ammunition, being used against demonstrators in Migori, Homabay, and other locations.

Imagine reading about a government using live bullets on its own citizens in international news—it’s an immediate indictment. This brutality has parallels to events in Sudan a few years ago, which led many to believe the then-government had no legitimacy to remain in power. Kenya now finds itself in a similar situation.

Protests erupted early in Migori before spreading to Homabay, Mombasa, Nakuru, and even Eldoret—the hometown of President William Ruto. Surprisingly, Eldoret witnessed a deployment of military forces, which many viewed as a desperate attempt to control the anti-government protests sweeping the nation.

However, tensions ran even higher as tribal counter-protests emerged in Eldoret, with some groups armed with bows, arrows, and singing traditional songs in support of the regime. Meanwhile, in Ukambani and along major roads like the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, protesters blocked traffic for hours, chanting "Ruto must go."

Despite military deployments, including Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) tanks in Nairobi, protesters remained resolute. In Kisumu, seasoned demonstrators walked up to the State Lodge, sat down, and began discussing the political crisis with military officers. The recurring theme of these conversations was unmistakable: Ruto must go.

In Nairobi, police used excessive force, throwing tear gas canisters into crowds, including one inside the Nation Center's reception area. Protesters in groups as small as 10 faced immediate dispersal with tear gas, while Gen Z members were harassed and searched across the city.

The unrest also extended to legislators. Protesters stormed the rural home of Narok MP Gabriel Tongoyo, forcing police to intervene. At a funeral in Mount Kenya, MP Moses Kuria was humiliated as mourners walked out the moment he began speaking.

The controversial Finance Bill 2024 remains a focal point. Despite claims that it has been shelved, suspicion lingers. President Ruto has written a memorandum to Parliament requesting the deletion of all its clauses, but with Parliament on recess until July 22, the bill’s fate remains uncertain.

Yet, the protests are no longer just about the Finance Bill. Kenyans are now demanding systemic change, rallying behind the cry of "Ruto must go." The root cause of this uprising lies in widespread frustration with a government perceived as disconnected from the struggles of its people. Unlike former President Moi, who ensured Kenyans had food and money even amidst corruption, the current regime appears indifferent to these basic needs.

This indifference has pushed the Ruto administration into a corner. Their inconsistent actions—alternating between aggression and retreat—reveal a government in panic mode. As political momentum shifts, it seems increasingly unlikely that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) can recover.

Kenya’s history has seen similar calls for change, most notably during the fight for multiparty democracy. Yet, this time feels different. With the economic crisis deepening and public anger unrelenting, the current regime’s survival seems improbable.