Protests gain momentum as Gachagua backyard joins

Opposition leader Raila Odinga's anti-government protests have gained momentum as more counties join in.

Roads and businesses remained deserted with shops closed ahead of expected demonstrations over the high cost of living.

So far protests have been witnessed in Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Kisumu, Nairobi and Nakuru

For Nyeri, which is Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's backyard, motorists also took to the streets to protest.

Many complained that they needed their grievances addressed.

Also, some matatu operators halted operations.

Nakuru was not left behind as minimal activities took place in the early morning hours.

Nyamira also joined its neighbour, Kisii in holding protests.

In videos seen by the Star, youths in Nyamira were spotted holding tear gas cans which were used by police to disperse them.

Demonstrators blocked the Nyamira-Kisii road with burning car tyres and stones.

In Kisumu, youths were enjoying a mini-football match in the empty streets adjacent to the main bus park as a dozen police officers look on.

The situation was no different in the capital city of Nairobi.

Jogoo Road, usually the busiest Road in the city, lies strangely empty.

Very few vehicles and pedestrians were spotted.

Mombasa CBD was turned into a battlefield between Police and protestors.

All in all, police have remained vigilant, monitoring the situation even as protestors camp at various locations within the town.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga had dispatched key members of the Azimio coalition to lead anti-government demonstrations at the grassroots.

Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition party has remained positive ahead of their planned protests despite a police ban.

In response to the statement by police Inspector General Japhet Koome announcing the ban, Azimio appeared to taunt the police saying the protests will go on as planned.

"Game, set and match for #MaandamanoWednesday. Vroom!!!" the party said.