Azimio La Umoja One Kenya leaders have announced their unwavering commitment to hold a fresh wave of countrywide demonstrations on Wednesday, in the following week.
During a press conference held on Friday in Nairobi Raila Odinga flanked by National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi and former Murang'a Governor Mwangi Wa Iria, expressed their determination to escalate their civil disobedience and mass action.
They emphasized the success of the recently concluded Saba-saba Day demonstration and vowed to stage larger and more impactful protests across the nation.
Raila extended his heartfelt gratitude to the supporters who responded to his call and turned out in overwhelming numbers on Friday.
"The protest was successful nationwide," he acknowledged, regarding the demonstration as the initial catalyst for their ongoing struggle, which he firmly believes will culminate in victory.
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The issues raised during the protests, such as punitive taxes and the burdensome cost of living, were deemed non-negotiable by Raila, further underscoring the urgency for change.
Asserting the constitutional rights bestowed upon Kenyans, Raila reiterated that citizens possess the inalienable rights to engage in picketing, demonstrations, and petitioning the government.
These rights, protected by the Constitution, form the legal basis for the forthcoming demonstrations organized by the Azimio leaders.
Drawing parallels to events of three decades ago, Mwangi Wa Iria evoked memories of a similar struggle for democracy.
Reflecting on the recent Saba-saba demonstration, he remarked, "It was a long day and a good day for Kenyans. It reminds me of what happened 30 years ago. We thought we had taken democratic strides, but it appears we remain stuck in the same situation. We were treated just like we were 30 years ago. We were peaceful, yet subjected to tear gas."
Wa Iria further recounted the alarming encounter with live bullets when the peaceful demonstrators reached the city centre.
He described a hooded police officer who appeared more like a terrorist.
Capturing the ordeal on video, he emphasized their intent to pursue justice and hold those responsible accountable for what they perceived as a deliberate attempt on their lives.
In addition to the demonstrations, Azimio leaders announced their resolve to pursue legal action in response to the alleged attack.
They vowed to ensure that those responsible face the consequences for their actions, displaying a steadfast commitment to upholding justice.
Furthermore, Azimio leaders unveiled their initiative to collect signatures, seeking to solidify and legitimize their movement.
This signature campaign serves as a testament to the broad public support behind their cause, demonstrating the widespread backing for their demands.
With their sights set on the upcoming nationwide demonstrations on Wednesday, all eyes remain fixed on the Azimio leaders.
The nation eagerly anticipates the impact of their actions and awaits the government's response.
Through their resolute commitment and pursuit of legal remedies, the leaders strive to effect tangible change and secure a brighter future for the people of Kenya.