I Stand With the People- Raila Says Amid Questions Over Political Leaning
Raila Odinga, the leader of Azimio, reaffirmed his commitment to the Kenyan people on Saturday, despite growing scrutiny over his political affiliations following the recent appointment of his close allies to the cabinet.
In his statement, Raila condemned the violence inflicted upon Kenyans during the Nane Nane Protests, raising concerns about the police’s excessive force against peaceful protesters and journalists covering the demonstrations.
“I am deeply troubled by the arbitrary arrests, detentions, and the excessive force used by the police, which resulted in the harassment of peaceful demonstrators and journalists, including CNN’s Larry Madowo,” Raila said.
He called on law enforcement to honor the constitutional rights of all Kenyans and urged for the immediate release of those wrongfully detained, as well as a thorough investigation into the officers’ misconduct.
Raila criticized the police for their unacceptable actions, which he argued constituted a direct breach of the rights guaranteed by the 2010 Constitution.
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He emphasized that these rights are essential to Kenyan democracy, fundamental pillars that were hard-won through the efforts of dedicated patriots.
Raila’s Political Dilemma
Raila has long been recognized as a champion of Kenyan democracy, celebrated for his pivotal role in opposing dictatorship during the Daniel Arap Moi era and contributing to the creation of the 2010 Constitution.
However, the recent youth-led protests against the government have shifted the focus away from the opposition. When Kenyans demonstrated in Nairobi’s Central Business District against the withdrawn Finance Bill 2024, a new political dynamic emerged.
For the first time in a long while, Kenyans were protesting government policies directly without the opposition’s involvement.
In response to the growing unrest, President William Ruto dissolved his cabinet and subsequently appointed Raila’s close allies to the reformed cabinet. The new appointees—Hassan Ali Joho (Mining & Blue Economy), John Mbadi (Treasury), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy and Petroleum), and Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives & SMEs)—are now serving as Cabinet Secretaries.
I Stand With the People- Raila Says Amid Questions Over Political Leaning
