Ruto allies fault Raila on plan to resume protests

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has faced severe criticism due to his intentions to resume protests in case the ongoing bipartisan negotiations fall short of expectations.

During a visit to Kajiado county on Saturday, Raila, accompanied by Martha Karua, issued a warning that he might mobilise his supporters to return to the streets if the discussions led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah do not yield positive results.

Kenya Kwanza leaders, who joined President William Ruto during an Interdenominational church service in Bungoma town yesterday, lashed out at the Azimio leader, saying his motivations for the country are questionable.

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa initiated the criticism against Raila, saying his statements serve as evidence of his pursuit of self-centred goals.

“Do not allow Raila to destabilise your government. Do not let Raila divert your focus with his threats and intimidation,” Barasa said.

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Ichung’wah cautioned that any leader who stirs up the public against the government will face arrest and legal action.

“While we have agreed to engage in discussions with Azimio, Raila has indicated his intention to return to the streets and employ violence as a means of political involvement,” he said.

“We emerged victorious over Raila and his allies in the previous elections. He is attempting to infiltrate the government through unconventional means. We reject an atmosphere of deceit and manipulation,” the Majority Leader said.

The Kikuyu lawmaker said the discussions do not encompass a handshake or the formation of a coalition government.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said Raila has often employed violent protests and property destruction to gain entry into government.

He reiterated Kenya Kwanza’s commitment to delivering services, saying they will not yield to ultimatums put forth by the Azimio leader.

“What we will not permit is Raila dragging Kenyans into the streets for violent protests. He called for dialogue, we accepted, and now he is resorting to threats of street protests. That’s unacceptable,” Gachagua said.

The DP also used the opportunity to implore the Luhya community to ditch Raila and support the Kenya Kwanza government for the sake of development. 

Gachagua asked the community to rally behind Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.