Date: July 11, 2023
Raila Odinga, prominent Kenyan politician and leader of the citizens’ resistance movement, has unveiled a new digital signature platform aimed at gathering support to reclaim powers delegated to the country’s leaders. The launch comes as part of an ongoing campaign to express dissatisfaction with President Ruto and the implementation of punitive taxes without the people’s consent.
Odinga emphasizes that the Finance Act 2023 exposed a disconnect between the desires of the people and the decisions made by both the legislature and the Executive, which seemingly prioritize their own interests. In response, the people have decided to invoke Article 1 of the Constitution and unite against the government.
The digital platform introduced by Odinga is intended to supplement other forms of resistance, such as civil disobedience, tax boycotts, and acts of defiance. Its purpose is to pressure the government into repealing the Finance Act 2023 and taking measures to alleviate the rising cost of living. The platform will run parallel to traditional manual signature collection, giving citizens the option to choose the method they prefer.
In light of concerns raised by the Kenya Kwanza regime regarding the destination and legality of the signatures, Odinga clarifies that they will not submit the signatures to the compromised Parliament or the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). He expresses gratitude to the 1.2 million people who have already signed and urges more Kenyans to participate in this historic endeavor.
Odinga reassures supporters that the citizens’ engagement forums, initiated in Kamkunji, Nairobi, will continue in various locations across the country. These forums serve as platforms for voicing concerns related to justice and well-being. He acknowledges the nationwide participation in last week’s events and condemns the violent response from the Kenya Kwanza regime, which resulted in fatalities and even an assassination attempt on himself.
While Odinga remains determined to carry out peaceful protests and civil disobedience, he announces plans to pursue legal action against individual officers involved in unconstitutional and illegal actions against protesters. Odinga emphasizes that their activities are protected by the Constitution, and any officers acting unlawfully must be held accountable.
The message concludes with Odinga calling for unity among Kenyans in their pursuit of justice and improved living conditions. He urges citizens to gather in Kamkunji once again to make their voices heard, emphasizing that their collective strength will ultimately compel Deputy President Ruto to respect the will of the people.
As the citizens’ resistance movement gains momentum, Kenyans are witnessing a significant political shift in the country. The upcoming events in Kamkunji hold the promise of continued mobilization and a united front demanding change.
