Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has strongly criticized President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of failing to address key issues affecting Kenyans.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, February 28, Odinga slammed the government for poor leadership, alleging that corruption remains rampant despite repeated calls for action. He claimed that Ruto’s administration had shown little commitment to tackling the vice, which continues to drain the country’s resources.
The former Azimio leader also raised alarm over the growing cases of abductions in the country. He accused the government of failing to protect citizens, stating that despite ongoing complaints and demands for intervention, many Kenyans who had been abducted were still missing. He further noted that no significant arrests had been made in connection to the kidnappings.
Odinga expressed concerns over what he termed as increasing intolerance by the government. He criticized the administration for suppressing people’s rights, including the freedom to assemble and demonstrate.
“We are witnessing a dangerous trend where citizens are being denied their constitutional right to gather and express their views. Worse still, we have cases of people being abducted and held in undisclosed locations for days, while others have been killed. This is a very disturbing situation that must be stopped immediately,” Odinga stated.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader also accused the government of failing to tackle deep-rooted tribalism, which he said was affecting service delivery. According to him, Kenyans from different regions have complained about being sidelined when it comes to accessing government services, creating division and discrimination.
Odinga also criticized the government’s handling of the health sector, particularly the disruptions caused by the introduction of the Social Health Authority (SHA). He noted that the new system had led to major challenges, leaving many Kenyans unable to access healthcare.
He urged the government to act swiftly to resolve the crisis, emphasizing that urgent solutions were needed to ensure citizens received proper medical care.
“We need unity as a country, but the healthcare crisis is affecting millions. Patients are suffering because of the confusion created by SHA. Doctors, nurses, medical lecturers, and students have all raised concerns, yet no clear solutions have been provided. This issue must be resolved as soon as possible,” he insisted.
Odinga’s demands come just days after he launched a nationwide consultative tour to gather public opinion on the next steps for his political movement.
During his first meeting on Wednesday, February 26, he engaged with youth leaders, businesspeople, elders, and other stakeholders to better understand the challenges Kenyans are facing. He has since vowed to push for solutions to the pressing issues affecting citizens.
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