Banners advocating for peace and dialogue were prominently displayed in major streets across Kisumu on Monday as nationwide transport sector strikes continued to disrupt movement throughout the country.
These banners, strategically positioned along key thoroughfares including the busy Kisumu Boys roundabout, carried messages encouraging political leaders and citizens to engage in dialogue rather than street demonstrations during the ongoing transport sector standoff.
One banner proclaimed: “Peleka mswada bungeni sio kelele kwa barabara,” roughly meaning “Take the bill to Parliament, not noise on the streets.”
Another message aimed at legislators stated: “Parliament and senators do your work stop inviting us to the streets.”
A third banner emphasized Kisumu’s identity as a peaceful city, declaring: “Kisumu we dialogue and we do not throw stones.”
These messages appeared as transport operations remained largely paralyzed in various parts of Kisumu due to the strike that has severely impacted public transportation services.
Although the city maintained a calm atmosphere, vehicle movement was minimal in several areas, leaving many commuters stranded at bus stops as matatus and buses remained off the roads.
The normally bustling Kisumu main bus terminus experienced reduced activity, with only a limited number of vehicles operating.
Fares for available transportation also increased significantly, prompting some passengers to delay their travel plans in anticipation of improved conditions later in the day.
The banners sparked discussions among residents, with some expressing support for the calls for peace and legislative action rather than confrontation.
Others interpreted the messages as a reflection of growing public discontent with recurring street demonstrations and political tensions that frequently disrupt business and transportation activities.
The nationwide strike continues to affect transport services in multiple towns, mounting pressure on both the government and stakeholders to find a permanent resolution.
Residents welcomed the banners, noting they represented the sentiments of many Kisumu residents who favor peaceful engagement despite the transportation crisis.
“I support the message because demonstrations and chaos only affect ordinary wananchi trying to earn a living,” said Peter Ochieng, a boda boda rider near the Kisumu Boys Roundabout.
“Leaders should sit down and talk instead of pushing people to the streets,” Mercy Akinyi, a trader in the city center, stated, adding that the banners promoted unity and calm.
“Kisumu has suffered enough during protests in the past. We want peace, business to continue and leaders to solve issues through Parliament and dialogue.”