Retaliatory attacks by protesters reportedly resulted in parts of a farm owned by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta being set on fire. Invaders were seen stealing sheep and felling trees, with some carrying machetes. Businesses remained closed, and a gas factory linked to opposition leader Raila Odinga was also vandalized. Mr Odinga accused the government of hiring thugs to attack Kenyatta’s farm, a claim the government has not commented on.
Post-election violence is not new in Kenya, but attacks on political leaders’ property signal a significant shift. Since the protests began, at least three people have been killed, and the violence has resulted in the closure of many businesses.
Odinga had called for the protests to demonstrate against government failures and what he said was President William Ruto’s fraudulent victory in last year’s election.
Despite the election being upheld by Kenya’s highest court, Odinga maintains it was “stolen” and has called for protests every Monday and Thursday. The Kenyatta family is one of Kenya’s largest landowners, and the political and business elites are often closely linked.
Attacks on political leaders’ property call into question the gentleman’s agreement after each election cycle between opposing sides. Some looters claimed they were getting even for business losses caused by protests organized by Odinga, allegedly sponsored by Kenyatta. Odinga denied any responsibility for the destruction of property.
source BBC
