In a firm statement on Tuesday, Azimio leader Raila Odinga issued a stern warning to members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) reportedly planning to join President William Ruto’s administration. Odinga clarified that the party’s position leans more towards initiating a national conversation to address the pertinent issues raised by Kenyans.
Odinga reiterated the ODM party’s support for the youthful protesters who have recently staged demonstrations to hold the government accountable. “Our commitment to the causes championed by Gen-Z remains steadfast. These are the same issues we have long been fighting for, including during last year’s Maandamano protests,” Odinga emphasized.
During his address, Odinga called on the government to launch a thorough investigation into the deaths of peaceful protesters during recent demonstrations and to compensate the families of those who died while picketing. He also demanded the immediate release of all arrested protesters and the dropping of charges against them.
The former Prime Minister dismissed claims that he was fronting nominees for cabinet secretary positions in the Kenya Kwanza administration. Odinga made it clear that his priority was for the Kenya Kwanza administration to address all critical issues before any form of engagement with the opposition party could take place.
“We know exactly where the problems lie in this government and the loopholes that successive governments have exploited to plunder taxpayers’ money,” Odinga stated. “Unfortunately, these problems have resurfaced, and the Gen-Z movement is right to demand an end to them,” he added.
Odinga’s clarification comes hours after ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna accused a section of Kenyans of misinterpreting the party’s stand on the ongoing crisis in the country. According to Sifuna, the party was not in any agreement with the Head of State, and any politician who joined Ruto’s government did so without the party’s approval.
Sifuna also criticized some ODM members for reportedly misinterpreting the party’s stance on the contentious subject. “As a party, we wish to make it unequivocally clear that we are not in negotiations with the Ruto regime for any coalition or political arrangement,” Sifuna stated.
“The ODM Party remains committed to its principles and the ongoing struggle for a better Kenya. We will continue to stand with the people and fight for justice,” he concluded.
This development highlights the internal tensions within ODM and the broader political landscape as the party navigates its role in opposing the current administration. Odinga’s firm stance signals a commitment to maintaining party unity and addressing the grievances raised by the Gen-Z movement and other protestors.
As the political climate in Kenya remains charged, the actions and decisions of key leaders like Raila Odinga will continue to shape the discourse and direction of the nation. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and other important news.
