Nakuru City experienced an unusually calm morning on Thursday, with businesses largely shuttered and streets deserted following the president’s withdrawal of the contentious Finance Bill. The decision, aimed at quelling public unrest, left the town’s commercial activities at a standstill as traders feared potential chaos and resultant losses.
The usually bustling town center saw a notable decline in human traffic, with shopkeepers and vendors opting to keep their businesses closed. Mary Waitherero, a local food kiosk owner, expressed her apprehensions about opening her shop amidst the uncertainty. “I do not want to cook and discard the food because human traffic in the town is low. Many people have stayed away today just like they did on Tuesday,” she said, referring to significant losses she incurred earlier in the week due to spoilt food and absent customers.
To ensure order, heavy police presence was observed throughout the town, particularly around key government installations. These included the law court, Nakuru County Assembly, Nakuru County Headquarters, and State House, Nakuru. The heightened security was a preventive measure to deter any potential protests that might arise despite the president’s intervention.
The slow business and empty streets reflect the anxiety and caution among Nakuru’s residents and traders. While the president’s withdrawal of the Finance Bill was a step towards addressing public discontent, the palpable tension and fear of unrest underscore the deep-seated concerns and uncertainties within the community.
As the day progresses, the residents of Nakuru remain watchful, hoping for stability and a return to normalcy. The situation highlights the delicate balance between governance and public sentiment, and the profound impact political decisions have on the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
