A past scene of violence in Kibera. [PHOTO/the-star.co.ke]
Although it is taboo among African communities to plan for funerals before a death occurs, opposition supporters in Kibera are doing it the other way.
They form funeral committees ahead of anti-government demonstrations so that in case one dies, their funeral needs are already catered for beforehand.
These committees are mandated to provide for the bereaved families, carry out a requiem service and transport the body home for burial.
Usually, the first protest is not planned for but subsequent demos are well planned before they march to the streets.
Whenever Raila Odinga alias ‘Baba’ calls for mass action, the demonstrators from Kibera form small teams of at least 12 members.
“Each team has its leader who oversees all the functions of the group. But there’s is also a secretary and a treasurer,” says a resident as quoted by Standard.
The secretary registers all new members wishing to join the demos while the treasurer collects registration fees and a refundable caution money.
“Registration fees is usually Sh200 while the refundable caution money is Sh300. There are more contributions through harambees in case we lose one of our members,” says the resident.
“We know very well that whenever there are demonstrations in informal settlements, security agents use excessive force."
“Some people do not know their way around the city. So during registration, you are asked to memorise the chairperson’s contacts. You also have to provide information on your next of kin, in case of any incident,” he says.
“During demonstrations, police shoot at people anyhow. They even get people out of their houses, parade them out in the streets and beat them up. This angers many and as a result, many more join future demonstrations,” he narrates bitterly.