Azimio leader Raila Odinga has declared that the opposition is ready to hit the street to protest and find a solution to the problems plaguing the nation.
According to Raila, the Kwanza government in Kenya is rife with corruption and the misuse of public monies, and Azimio will not let up on their pursuit of justice for Kenyans.
Yesterday, he continued gaining support for the planned demonstrations that are set to begin on July 7 by speaking at a public baraza in Ugunja. He claimed that President William Ruto’s administration had failed Kenyans.
Raila is eager to mobilize his fan base to participate in acts of civil disobedience in order to pressure the Kenya Kwanza administration to repeal harsh taxes.
The ODM leader criticized President Ruto’s management style, claiming that he would not permit the nation to return to the era of dictatorship. The Kenya Kwanza administration came under fire from him for its high taxes, ailing economy, and corruption.
In a warning, Raila stated that the predicted mass demonstrations would continue unless Kenyans’ problems were addressed. “I want each and every one of you to come out in full force to the protests. We won’t be doing this because we oppose progress. We’re saying Kenyans are exhausted,” he said.
Accusing the Kenya Kwanza government of passing laws that would benefit the ruling elite at the expense of the general public, he declared that the opposition would not be bullied into silence. “Kenyans have shown their disapproval of tax increases in polls. Through demonstrations, they have claimed to have the authority required by the Constitution,” he said.
Raila’s demand for widespread demonstrations comes as other parties choose to use the legal system to contest some of Kenya Kwanza’s contentious policies. Senator Okiya Omtatah of Busia has contested the application of the contentious Finance Act, 2023. The High Court has temporarily halted the Act’s execution.
Since Kenyans are already burdened with taxes, according to Raila, they will not tolerate taxation without representation. We have told Ruto that his government officers are dirty and he should act. If you look at the things and places where they increasing taxes, it is in places that will burden Kenyans,” he said.
Opiyo Wandayi, the minority leader in the National Assembly, asked supporters of Azimio to participate forcefully in the demonstrations on the streets. “We’ll go out and show this government how worn out Kenyans are. These protests will start on Friday and continue over the weekend, according to Wandayi.
While other Kenyans continue to struggle, he slammed the government for raising the wages of prominent officials. Teachers and police officers, according to Wandayi, are suffering because they have not received pay raises.
James Orengo, the governor of Siaya, persuaded Azimio’s supporters to back Raila wholeheartedly and show up in large numbers for the protests. Kenya Kwanza was accused of trying to revive the economy through propaganda by Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga.
