Nairobi, Kenya – In a bold move marking a significant escalation in political activism, the Kenya Liberation Movement (KELMO) has issued a call for the “National Liberation of Kenya,” urging citizens to occupy the Statehouse and all state lodges starting from June 24, 2024. This call to action, directed particularly towards the Gen Z demographic, represents a dramatic shift in the ongoing political protests against the current administration.
The movement’s proclamation, released on June 20, 2024, leverages Article 1 of the Kenyan Constitution, which asserts that “all sovereign power belongs to the people of Kenya.” KELMO has criticized President William Ruto’s administration as “extremely oppressive and dictatorial,” declaring that it is time for the citizens to “exercise their sovereign power directly” by reclaiming the governance from what they describe as an illegitimate rule.
The document is a clear manifestation of the deep-rooted dissatisfaction among various segments of the Kenyan population, especially the youth, who have been vocal in their demands for transparency, accountability, and equitable governance. KELMO’s call is not just a protest against specific policies but a demand for a fundamental shift in the nation’s leadership and governance structures.
In addition to mobilizing the public, KELMO has called upon the Kenya Defence Forces to prepare a Transitional Authority to ensure a smooth transfer of power, emphasizing the need for a civilian-led governance structure post-transition. The inclusion of the military in this dialogue is a significant move, reflecting the seriousness of KELMO’s intent towards systemic change.
The international community, including the African Union and the United Nations, has also been cc’ed in this announcement, suggesting KELMO’s efforts to garner global attention and possibly international support for their cause. This approach indicates the strategic planning behind the movement’s actions, aiming to ensure legitimacy and backing on both a domestic and international front.
This call for liberation is a pivotal moment in Kenya’s political landscape, potentially setting the stage for widespread civil demonstrations or even larger political upheavals. The response of the government and international bodies to this declaration will be crucial in shaping the future trajectory of this movement and the nation’s political stability.
As Kenya braces for the planned events of June 24th, all eyes will be on the interactions between protestors, the government, and security forces, with the hope for a peaceful and constructive resolution to the grievances expressed by KELMO and its supporters.
