Azimio to Resume Maandamano Should NADCO Report Remain Unimplemented

The delayed implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report has sparked concerns about potential nationwide protests.

Siaya Governor James Orengo has warned that the government’s delay in enacting the report could reignite widespread demonstrations akin to those witnessed last year. Orengo’s stern message was delivered during a meeting with ODM delegates in Siaya County on Monday where he expressed grave apprehensions about the ongoing impasse. Echoing the sentiments of some Azimio leaders, he accused the Kenya Kwanza faction of obstructing the report’s implementation which aims to address longstanding issues plaguing the nation.

The NADCO negotiations facilitated by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Kimani Ichungw’ah, and Opiyo Wandayi, were hailed by Orengo as crucial endeavors, and he adamantly called for the report’s enactment within the agreed-upon timeframe. Failure to do so, he cautioned, would inevitably lead to a resurgence of the previous wild political scene. Amidst these political tensions, Orengo also criticized ODM leaders who have begun speculating about Raila Odinga’s successor. He lauded the role Raila’s support plays in the party’s survival.

Notably, Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho and former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya have emerged as potential candidates vying to succeed Raila as the President in 2027, a development sparked by Raila’s expressed interest in the chairperson position of the African Union Commission (AUC). In a separate development, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced his full support for the NADCO report on Monday despite initially harbouring reservations. Speaking to journalists at his office in Karen, Gachagua disclosed that he had not observed any indications of a potential political alliance between President William Ruto and Raila Odinga.

Additionally, he voiced his opposition to the idea when President Ruto informed him of his intention to engage Raila to ease political tensions in the country. However, Gachagua reluctantly agreed to attend the meeting after learning that National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire would also be present, as these two individuals had demonstrated their commitment to serving the best interests of the Mount Kenya region.