On Monday, 21st June 2021, comedian Eric Omondi caused a stir in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) after staging a protest that brought traffic to a standstill. The comedian was protesting against the government’s decision to close down his studio, Big Tyme Entertainment, located in Lavington, Nairobi.
The protest started at around 10 am when Eric Omondi and his team arrived at the Nyayo Stadium roundabout, carrying placards and chanting slogans. They then proceeded to walk towards the city center, causing a massive traffic jam along the way. The protest attracted a huge crowd, with many curious onlookers stopping to see what was happening.
However, the protest did not last long as the police intervened and arrested Eric Omondi and his team. The comedian was taken to the Central Police Station, where he was booked for creating a disturbance and inciting the public.
Eric Omondi’s protest was sparked by the government’s decision to close down his studio, Big Tyme Entertainment, which he claims was done without any prior notice or explanation. The studio is said to have been operating without a permit, and the government had warned that it would take action against illegal businesses.
The comedian has since taken to social media to express his disappointment with the government’s actions, stating that he had invested heavily in the studio and that its closure would affect many people who depend on it for their livelihoods.
The incident has once again highlighted the issue of government crackdowns on informal businesses in Nairobi. Many small business owners have complained about the lack of support from the government, which they say makes it difficult for them to operate legally.
Eric Omondi’s protest has also raised questions about the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression in Kenya. While these rights are enshrined in the Kenyan constitution, they are often curtailed by the authorities, who view protests as a threat to public order.
In conclusion, Eric Omondi’s protest may have caused inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians in Nairobi CBD, but it has also brought attention to the plight of small business owners in Kenya. The government should take steps to support these businesses and provide them with the necessary permits and licenses to operate legally. At the same time, citizens should be allowed to exercise their right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression without fear of reprisals from the authorities.
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