Raila Odinga Demands Government to Compensate Gen Z Protest Victims
ODM leader Raila Odinga has renewed his calls for the government to compensate victims affected by political protests dating back to 2023. Speaking during a meeting with ODM leaders in Mombasa on Sunday, March 2, Raila insisted that those who suffered injuries during the Azimio protests in 2023 should be compensated.
Additionally, he extended his demands to include victims of the Gen Z protests in 2024. He emphasized that the youth who sustained injuries and the families of those who lost their lives deserved financial compensation from the government.
“The young people who were injured, as well as the parents of those who died in the 2023 Azimio protests and last year’s Gen Z protests, must receive compensation,” Raila stated. “However, the bigger concern is that such incidents should not be occurring in our country in the first place.”
Background on the Protests
In 2023, Kenya witnessed a series of nationwide demonstrations spearheaded by Raila under the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition. These protests were initially driven by disputes over the 2022 presidential election results, with frustrations over the rising cost of living later becoming a key issue.
The demonstrations, which stretched from March to August 2023, left a significant impact on the country’s economy and people’s lives. Reports indicated that dozens of Kenyans lost their lives during the unrest, while many others were left with injuries.
In response to the crisis, the government eventually engaged Azimio leaders in negotiations through the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO). However, discussions have since stalled due to internal disagreements within the Azimio coalition.
Raila’s Political Stand
Raila’s renewed demands come at a time when uncertainty surrounds his next political move following his unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship. Despite maintaining cordial relations with the Kenya Kwanza administration, he has remained vocal in holding President William Ruto’s government accountable.
In January, amid a surge in abduction cases, Raila publicly criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration, urging the government to be more truthful and transparent about the issue.
Political Tensions Rising
At the same time, a major political storm is brewing as Raila’s allies continue to engage with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s camp. These discussions appear to be part of a broader strategy aimed at weakening President Ruto’s grip on power ahead of the next elections.
On Sunday, Gachagua acknowledged Raila’s enduring influence in the country’s political landscape, despite his failed AUC bid. He suggested that Raila held significant power over Ruto’s political future.
“The President is currently surviving politically because of Raila Odinga. If we withdraw our support, that will be the end,” Gachagua boldly stated.
With tensions rising and shifting political alliances, the coming months could see even greater uncertainty in Kenya’s political arena.
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