Prepare for Third Wave of Protests, Raila Tells President Ruto

Azimio leader Raila Odinga announced on Thursday, July 13, 2023, that he would lead a third wave of protests against the government despite cancelling his planned rally at Kamukunji. 

He spoke to the press at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation in Nairobi where he described the countrywide protests as successful despite the police show of brutality. Odinga claimed that Kenya Kwanza was behind a plot to harm innocent people who were attempting to access the grounds. When Azimio began to set up a stage, officers of the anti-riot police arrived and fired tear gas, resulting in a clash with the youth, who retaliated by throwing stones.

Odinga made it clear that the demonstrations would go on until President Ruto agrees to repeal the Finance Act and take other steps to reduce the cost of living. With a unified voice, he affirmed that the coalition would “force Ruto to give Kenyans a good deal” and that they would soon announce the third wave of protests and the next course of action. He said Kenyans have been left to contemplate how to shape their own destiny following the abandonment by their leaders. 

Odinga’s remarks came amid a push by four UDA representatives to back a legislative proposal that would see those who organize demonstrations held accountable for any loss of life or destruction of property. Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku has proposed the Assembly, Demonstration, Picketing and Petition Bill 2023 after the anti-government protests caused disruption to businesses and schools. Ruku observes that such protests have previously resulted in fatalities and destruction, with Wednesday being no exception.