In a resolute declaration, Azimio leader Raila Odinga has affirmed his unwavering commitment to championing the rights of Kenyan citizens.
During an interdenominational prayer service held in Kajiado on Sunday, the former Prime Minister addressed the pressing concerns of Kenyan citizens and vowed not to remain silent.
Raila was responding to a call by the clergy at the interdenominational service, who implored him not to keep quiet in the face of the escalating cost of living.
In his response, he stated, “Wameniambia nisinyamaze. Siwezi nyamaza. Nitazidi kuongea kwa niaba ya wakenya na kutetea haki za wananchi wa Kenya,” which translates to, “They have asked me not to keep quiet. I will continue speaking on behalf of Kenyans and defending the rights of Kenyans.”
The Opposition leader was joined by prominent political figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc Kenya boss Martha Karua, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, Usawa party leader Mwangi wa Iria, and National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, among others.
Raila emphasized that the status quo cannot persist without repercussions, highlighting the distressing Mavoko demolitions that have left numerous homeowners displaced.
He decried the demolition of schools, churches, and hospitals by an administration claiming to uphold Christian values.
Expressing his concern for the hardships faced by Kenyans during the one-year tenure of the Kenya Kwanza regime, Raila asserted, “We will not let this continue.”
He underscored the sacrifices made by Kenyans to secure their freedom and stressed the importance of preserving these gains.
In response to the clergy’s call for Raila to defend the rights of Kenyans, Kalonzo urged Kenyan citizens to actively participate in advocating for their rights.
He declared that it was time for Kenyans to lead anti-government protests themselves and expressed his reluctance to rely solely on Raila for such initiatives.
“You have told us that Baba (Raila) should not be quiet, and we will not be quiet. But let us not depend on Raila alone and say Kenyans must rise up and speak,” Kalonzo asserted.
He further emphasized his determination to prevent Raila from leading street demonstrations, encouraging the entire nation to take part without their leaders being subjected to tear gas.
Martha Karua echoed these sentiments, declaring her readiness to take to the streets once more if the ongoing bipartisan talks, which led to the suspension of demonstrations, fail to yield favorable results.
“My brother Kalonzo, I’m not saying I will not go to the streets. If it becomes necessary, I will,” she affirmed, underlining the collective responsibility of citizens to safeguard their rights and freedoms.
About Author
