Comedian and activist Eric Omondi has stirred public debate after announcing what he described as a symbolic public holiday dubbed “Kibuyu Monday,” saying Kenyans need a break from the mounting economic and social pressures affecting citizens across the country.
Speaking during a press conference, the outspoken entertainer painted a grim picture of the state of the nation, claiming that many citizens are struggling under the weight of rising living costs, financial stress, and emotional exhaustion.
According to Eric, the move is not an official government declaration but rather a public call for Kenyans to collectively pause and highlight the difficulties many families are facing.
“Of course, this press conference is for one reason. The press conference is about this coming Monday. We are declaring this Monday a public holiday,” he said.
He explained that his decision stemmed from concerns over the increasing hardships affecting ordinary citizens.
“We are doing that because Kenyans need a break from suffocation. They need a break from suffering. Kenyans are going through a lot,” he added.
The comedian argued that citizens are being overwhelmed by multiple challenges at once, saying people are not just dealing with isolated problems but are instead facing pressure from every direction.
He pointed to parents struggling to pay school fees, workers finding it difficult to meet rent obligations, and families dealing with food shortages and medical issues.
“The country is depressed. The nation is stressed. Parents are struggling with school fees. People are struggling with rent. Some people don’t have food. Some people are in hospitals,” he stated.
He further compared the country’s situation to that of a seriously ill patient in need of urgent medical attention.
“If you have one problem, then it’s easy to handle. But if you are being hit from all corners, then you are not okay. I would describe Kenya as a very sick country or a very sick person that needs medication, a person that needs treatment,” Eric said.
The entertainer also appealed directly to employers across the country, asking them to allow workers to stay away from work on the proposed day.
“I’m requesting politely, every boss, every employer, tafadhali, just allow your employees. Wasi kuje kazi Monday,” he said.
Eric further linked his campaign to reports of planned transport disruptions, referencing a possible matatu strike and suggesting that many people could struggle to access their workplaces anyway.
“Matatu zina strike. The Matatu Owners Association wame declare that on Monday watakua strike. Watu watafika aje job?” he questioned.
He urged Kenyans to carry jerrycans — locally referred to as kibuyus — as a visual representation of public frustrations and economic burdens.
“So on Monday is Kibuyu Monday. It is also walk to work Monday. Of course there is no work. So we are saying walk to town Monday,” he stated.
The activist encouraged people from different regions across the country to participate, whether physically joining activities or sharing photos online.
“We’ll be carrying jerrycans all over the country. Kama uko Kisumu, uko Mandera, uko Kwale, ama uko Kilifi. On Monday, beba kibuyu,” he said.
