Kenya’s opposition suspends anti-government protests

Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga has called off anti-government protests scheduled for Monday, saying he was ready for negotiations following an appeal from President William Ruto.

Thousands have joined three marches over the past two weeks against high living costs and alleged fraud in last year’s vote.

Odinga announced on Sunday evening that he was calling off the fourth rally in response to Ruto suggesting that they create a bipartisan parliamentary committee to work through concerns over the electoral process.

The opposition leader, who has disputed Ruto’s victory in 2022, said he saw the president’s statement as an olive branch and a “positive development”.

However, Odinga says his party “reserves the right to call for demonstrations should this process not bear fruit

The opposition has been pushing for reforms to electoral commission, high cost of living and subsidies on fuel, maize, and electricity.