He is what some would label a "goon", one of dozens of stick-wielding men who have taken to the capital's streets to counter recent protests. The demonstrations, triggered by the death of a blogger in police custody, have witnessed scenes like this, with protesters beat with sticks and rubber whips.

But Aroko says he wants to rebut misinformation, and that he is protecting the city.
"As a young man, I've come from a crime. I want to change my life... I'm a father. I want something to go home to. I want my family, my child, (to) know that my money comes from a genuine place. That's why I'm protecting the people's property and I'm with the government," Aroko said.

Reuters reporters have repeatedly seen the so-called goons advancing alongside police officers toward groups of unarmed demonstrators. But Aroko says he and others like him are "patriots" defending property in the Central Business District against protesters who loot and cause violence.

"You protest but don't burn. Unless you go, you go. You go behind and start throwing stones. We'll take a cane or nyawunyo (club) axe to disperse you," Aroko said. Whether they are "goons" or "patriots", the armed presence on the capital's streets is heightening fears that violence will mar a large demonstration expected on Wednesday.

It will mark the one-year anniversary of a mass protest that culminated in the storming of parliament and several deaths. Human rights activists say the counter-protesters amount to a militia employed by powerful politicians and operating with police support.

But Aroko insists they aren’t working with the police and are financed by local business people to protect property instead. He said he was paid 5 000 Kenyan shillings, or close to $39, per protest. There was no immediate response from the Nairobi chamber of commerce.

The National Police Service said it "does not work with 'goons.' Aroko said he and other counter-protesters are prepared for Wednesday.

"Come peacefully but don't come with your crude weapons because business community are ready for you," Aroko said.

--Reuters--