Raila’s message to Kenyans on Madaraka day

This year’s Madakara Day is different. Unlike in the past, where leaders would assembly at a stadium to address Kenyans, most of them, if not all, will give their speeches virtually. As the country is battling with a pandemic – COVID-19, citizens have been asked to maintain social distancing.

Former Prime minister Raila Odinga was among the leaders who addressed Kenyans today. In his speech, the Orange Democratic Movement party leader acknowledged the citizens who followed government directives to curb the spread of the pandemic.

Raila also recognized the efforts made by health workers countrywide to save the lives of Kenyans during the ongoing pandemic.

“I salute our dedicated health workers who have risked their lives to lead the battle against COVID-19 from the front and made all the difference in regards to saving lives.

"I salute our citizens who have taken personal responsibility in the battle against the pandemic in addition to following the government guidelines on how to defeat the coronavirus,” said Raila.

The former Prime Minister had a message for Kenyans not following government directives, such as washing hands and avoiding crowded places.

He said that following government directives not only protects the individual but also the family and other Kenyans.

"I wish to urge the few Kenyans who have refused to listen to the advice by the government, by desisting from overcrowding, from washing their hands with soaps and sanitizers, from going to overcrowded funeral services. They are doing a great disservice to this country. By protecting yourself, you will protect your family and other Kenyans," added Raila.

In the battle against the pandemic, Raila said Kenya was doing much better compared to other countries and proved to the world it’s capability.

As Madaraka stands for Independence, the ODM leader encouraged Kenyans the to win, we have to struggle and make sacrifices.

“Every struggle requires sacrifices if we are to win. Freedom fighter underwent torture and arrests to make Madaraka Day possible,” said Raila.

He encouraged Kenyans to be resilient despite the current economic situation that last left thousands jobless, locust invasion, and the floods that have claimed the lives of over 200 people.

Kenya has so far recorded a total of 1,962 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 64 deaths.