Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticized the Azimio la Umoja Coalition leadership over the plans to resume their anti-government protests on Tuesday in Nairobi and other parts of the country.

During Labour Day celebrations in Nairobi's Uhuru Gardens, Gachagua suggested that Azimio Leader Raila Odinga and his team face President William Ruto in the State House instead of involving his followers.

PHOTO | COURTESY Gachagua tells off Raila

The DP states the opposition should support President Ruto's request for bipartisan negotiations in parliament buildings.

"Stop disturbing hustlers in Eastlands and Southlands Nairobi. If you have issues to raise then face President Ruto at State House. Others can come to my office. You can also face Duale (CS Defence) at DoD or Kindiki (CS, Interior). Stop using hustlers who are going about their activities," Gachagua said.

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During the protests, he cautioned the opposition that the government would protect lives and property.

"The constitution mandates President Ruto to protect Kenyans and their property." He cannot ignore that mandate. Do what you want, but remember that the president will protect every Kenyan and their belongings.

His remarks come a day before the Azimio protests, which are expected to protest the high cost of living, government appointments, and other concerns.

In the bipartisan talks convened by Ruto, Azimio has accused the government of lacking goodwill. Both parties in parliament have maintained a hardline stance, demanding the withdrawal of members from the parliamentary teams chosen to lead the talks. 

PHOTO | COURTESY Raila

The former prime minister and his supporters took to the streets over a month ago in two weeks, resulting in skirmishes between protestors and police, property destruction, and loss of life.

The protests also disrupted routine operations in Nairobi, Kisumu, and other towns in the Nyanza area where Raila is popular.

In his statement, the azimio la Umoja coalition leader Raila Odinga has promised that during Tuesday's demos, they will present their pleas to the office of the Treasury and the office of the president.