I'm Not Interested in Traveling Abroad, Raila Tells Ruto over Travel Ban Threats
Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition leader Raila Odinga has reacted to reports that President Ruto’s administration wants the US, UK and other Western nations to impose sanctions against him over his calls for mass action.
Sunday Nation reported that Ruto is seeking sanctions such as a travel ban against Odinga if he makes true his threat to lead nationwide protests against the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Reacting to the report, Odinga warned the international community against meddling in the country’s internal affairs, insisting that the planned mass action will commence in 10 days should Ruto’s administration fail to address the opposition’s demands, including lowering the cost of living and changing the formula of selecting new electoral officials.
"Asking the West to ban me from their countries is cowardice. I will fight for the rights of Kenyans. Our election was stolen, they know it. We don't have any issues with other countries. We are friends with neighboring and international countries from the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Russia, and African countries. If we have problems, it is our responsibility as Kenyans to transform and solve them,” Odinga said in Kitale on Sunday.
He added: “Our countdown to the 14-day ultimatum still stands. We have 10 days to go. We remain unbowed. Kenya must reclaim from the hands of thieves.”
Odinga, who insists the 2022 presidential election was rigged in favor of Ruto, said threats of international sanctions will not deter his anti-government protests.
“I have heard them saying that Baba wants to bring chaos in the country, so I should not be allowed to travel abroad. I have no interest in going abroad. If there is dirt in the country, it is our responsibility to clean the mess. If there is electoral malpractice, it is our duty to correct it in accordance with our Constitution,” he affirmed.
“When you say that Raila should not go aboard, I'm not interested. Let it be. We will correct our problems in Kenya. I want to tell people not to be afraid.”