Renowned Azimio leader Raila Odinga has implored his supporters to momentarily suspend their anti-government protests until Thursday morning.
Raila made this announcement during an interview with Nation, where he emphasized the success of the first day of demonstrations against tax hikes and the escalating cost of living.
Undeterred by the State's response, Raila assured his followers that their fight to compel the Kenya Kwanza government, led by President William Ruto, to alleviate the burden of high living expenses would persist.
"We will continue with our peaceful demonstrations as planned. But we will stop at 5 pm today and resume tomorrow morning. We will continue to agitate for our rights as Kenyans; we won't give up," Raila declared during a phone conversation, expressing gratitude towards Kenyans for their active participation in the movement.
Although Raila refrained from disclosing his current location, he emphasized that the struggle for justice would not waver.
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He echoed the sentiments of countless citizens who have taken to the streets, united in their pursuit of a better quality of life.
Simultaneously, the veteran politician voiced his dismay over the arrest of numerous protesters and opposition politicians, including Stewart Madzayo, the Kilifi Senator, Ken Chonga, the Kilifi South MP, and Teddy Mwambire, the Kilifi County Assembly Speaker.
Raila revealed that his bodyguard, Maurice Ogeta, had been released, but the whereabouts of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino remained unknown.
Azimio leaders declared a three-day demonstration period, starting from Wednesday and concluding on Friday, informing the government's decision to close all-day primary and secondary schools in Mombasa, Nairobi, and Kisumu cities due to security concerns.
Raila's call for a temporary suspension of protests exhibits a strategic approach to their movement.
By halting their activities at 5 pm on Wednesday and resuming the next morning, Raila and his supporters aim to regroup, strategize, and regain momentum.
The resilience and determination shown by a section of Kenyans during these protests reflect their unwavering commitment to securing their rights and demanding a more affordable way of life.
As the demonstrations continue to unfold, the nation eagerly awaits Thursday morning to witness the resumption of these peaceful protests, with Raila's steadfast leadership at the helm.