Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition leader Raila Odinga declared the start of a nationwide strike on Thursday in an attempt to put pressure on President William Ruto to meet their demands on the cost of living, the IEBC selection panel, and other issues.
Addressing journalists at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, Odinga stated that the protests will culminate in a major protest in Nairobi on March 20, 2023, claiming that his supporters “have a date with destiny” on that date.
Azimio also launched the Movement for Defense of Democracy (MDD), an initiative that is against the current regime.
“We launch a campaign of defiance, peaceful protests and demonstrations. It begins today and now. We urge the victims of the retrogressive policies of this illegitimate regime to join this political revolution. We are stronger together.
“Take note. On the 20th of March 2023, we have a date with destiny in Nairobi. On that day, our supporters throughout the country will stage a massive procession in Nairobi for a legitimate and inclusive government,” he stated.
Raila’s announcement comes after the lapse of a 14-day ultimatum that he had issued to the government.
The former prime minister accused Ruto of “overseeing the looting of public resources”, which, he said, has resulted in the skyrocketing cost of living.
At the same time, Odinga accused the Head of State of introducing policies that have led to the “over-taxation of Kenyans”.
Odinga also took issue with the Cabinet’s decision to lift the ban on the importation of GMOs, saying the move will “destroy Kenya’s food basket”.
The ODM leader further took issue with the IEBC commissioners’ selection criteria, saying the selection panel will play to Ruto’s tunes by selecting commissioners who will aid him retain the presidency in 2027.
“The attempt by Kenya Kwanza regime to reconstitute the IEBC by forming a William Ruto commission is a reckless misadventure. The IEBC selection panel is a puppet of Ruto’s clique that intends to create 7 Chebukatis who will aid him in stealing the 2027 elections,” he said.
The ODM boss further said that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is not fit to hold public office over integrity concerns.
“We do not have patience with the illegitimate regime. We cannot keep living on false promises,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka announced the launch of a massive peaceful movement against Ruto’s regime.
Kalonzo stated that they will lead the people in taking back their delegated powers.
“We are today launching a massive peaceful movement against an illegitimate, reckless, heartless, incompetent Kenya Kwanza regime. The people are now taking back all their delegated powers. It is now action time,” Kalonzo stated.
