Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, on Wednesday, responded to the intention of East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament, David ole Sankok, to organize protests. Sankok had expressed his frustration with Azimio, an opposition group, for what he perceived as continuous disruptions to government operations.
Speaking in Narok West, Narok County, Gachagua advised Sankok against proceeding with the protests and encouraged him to address his concerns with the government. Gachagua remarked, “You, Ole Sankok, since we sent you to Tanzania, it seems you’ve become spoilt. You are a member of the ruling coalition. Now you are saying you will lead demonstrations. We cannot take that direction.”
Sankok’s motivation for the planned demonstrations stems from Azimio’s consistent criticism of the government regarding the high cost of living. He explained, “Very soon we are going for protests. For a long time, teachers and doctors protested over salary increments. We want the prices of food products, including milk, meat, maize flour, and other cereals, to be reduced.”
It’s worth noting that Sankok was one of the five nominees selected by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to represent Kenya at EALA in 2022. Other nominees alongside Sankok included former Nandi Woman Representative Zipporah Kering, former United Republican Party (URP) Secretary General Fred Muteti, former Nominated Senator Falhada Dekow Iman, and former Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar.
EALA, the East African Legislative Assembly, operates as an independent legislative body within the East African Community (EAC). This institution was established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the establishment of the East African Community (EAC). Members of the EALA serve a 5-year term and may seek re-election for an additional 5 years.
