Heavily armed security teams have been strategically deployed in Eldoret town at locations previously used as meeting points for the anti-Finance Bill protests.
More than eight anti-riot police land rovers have been stationed at Zion Mall, a primary gathering spot for youth protesters. Additional security forces are positioned near Paul’s Bakery along Bungoma Road, as well as on roads leading to Kisumu and Iten. Sources indicate that more General Service Unit (GSU) officers will also be deployed to ensure peace and order.
“We have been asked to patrol and help keep peace,” said one of the commanders who declined to be named.
Despite fears of potential youth gatherings for peace protests, the town remained calm by midday. Businesses have reopened, and repairs are underway in areas that experienced destruction during the protests.
UDA supporters have also been re-erecting some of the party’s wheelbarrow symbols, which had been destroyed. A notable symbol was erected afresh on a high mast at the Kisumu road junction in Eldoret. This effort follows a day after President William Ruto’s supporters conducted peace demonstrations in the town.
“The president responded well to the issues raised and as residents of Eldoret we stand with him,” said an elder Benjamin Leting.
Church leaders in the region led by ACK Bishop of Eldoret Christopher Ruto also met and called for calm as the president works out to restore normalcy in the country.
“ We now must refocus our energy to strengthen peace and deal with the socio-economic issues raised by our youth,” said Bishop Ruto.
