By Joshua Cheloti

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has revealed that businesspersons lost billion of shillings within hours of Azimio protests in Nairobi on March 20, 2023.

The opposition on Monday staged protests that saw businesses closed as the police and protestors engaged in running battles within the CBD and other residential estates.

According to the second in command, at least Ksh2 billion were lost due to the protests.

Speaking during an event in Mombasa city, the DP said it was sad that such a huge amount of money had to be lost due to protests organized by the opposition.

“A number of business people in the CBD did not open their shops and businesses arising from fear of looting and loss of property,” Gachagua said.

“As a result this morning because of the lack of business in the CBD, the county has lost almost Ksh2 billion. Money that should have been circulating in the economy,” he added.

But even as the DP lamented over a billion lost, he challenged the opposition leaders to call off what he termed as ‘mayhem and intimidations.

He noted that the protests will only serve to disrupt the economy that was showing signs of recovery.

“Events by the opposition are not good for business and economy,” Gachagua said.

“I want to ask organizers to consider calling off the mayhem so that people can go back and work,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Deputy President has assured members of the public within Nairobi that their security is guaranteed.

He noted that President William Ruto has given firm instructions to the Inspector General of Police to ensure lives and property are protected.

“Police have taken charge of CBD. No life has been lost, no property destroyed,” said the DP.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga called for mass action due to among others the current high cost of living and calls for electoral reforms.

While the opposition wants a return of fuel and maize subsidies, as well as inclusion in setting up of the IEBC selection panel, President Ruto has maintained he will not act outside legal provisions.