'We have nothing to celebrate': NASA supporters boycott Jamhuri fete

Members of an entertainment group follow proceedings during Jamhuri day celebrations in Siaya county, December 12, 2017. /LAMECK BARAZA
Members of an entertainment group follow proceedings during Jamhuri day celebrations in Siaya county, December 12, 2017. /LAMECK BARAZA

NASA supporters in Bungoma and Siaya counties boycotted Jamhuri day events saying they "have nothing to celebrate".

Led by Senator Moses Wetang'ula's adviser Wafula Wakoli, Bungoma residents said they will not take part as many did not vote in the repeat presidential election on October 26.

"We are going on with our daily chores that will help us put food on the table," he said on Tuesday.

He said they are advocating for dialogue between NASA leader Raila Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta so that the country can be peaceful.

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Wakoli said many Kenyans do not have anything to be proud of despite being independent for 54 yeats.

"We don't see anything important they are going to talk about and tell Kenyans since they do not care about how life has become unbearable to Wanjiku who has been plunged to total misery every now and then," Wakoli said.

Although Raila's planned swearing-in was postponed, Wakoli said NASA is still on course to Canaan.

"We Kenyans want change and a meaningful change that will help do away with rampant tribalism, corruption and the high cost of living that has rocked the Jubilee administration," he added.

LOW TURNOUT

Jerus Wekesa, a resident from Kanduyi, said the day has no meaning.

"We are going to soldier on until Kenya gets its true independence. I want to appeal to Uhuru to allow dialogue and sit down with Raila to find a way out," he added.

Governor Wycliffe Wangamati led residents in celebrations at Rai Paper stadium in Wabuye, although the event was marked with low turnout.

Celebrations in Siaya also had low turnout as residents gave the event a wide berth.

The event was presided over by county commissioner Josephine Onunga and deputy Joseph Sawe who read President Uhuru Kenyatta's speech.

A similar situation was seen in Kisumu county where Opposition leaders skipped the event.

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