Raila Threatens to Resume Protests

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has threatened to resume street protests within 30 days if talks between the opposition and government collapse. 

During the burial of protesters in Siaya County on Saturday, August 5, Raila reassured his supporters that he would continue to pressure the government to address their concerns. In defiance of William Ruto's warnings, the opposition hinted at arranging nationwide demonstrations in September 2023. Raila has put forth a 30-day ultimatum for the government to address their demands including lowering the cost of living and consulting with the opposition on the reconstruction of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). 

A bipartisan team, including Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, DAP Party leader Eugene Wamalwa, Nyamira Senator Okong'o Omogeni and Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi has been selected to represent Azimio party in the talks. Meanwhile, Raila has instructed Kalonzo Musyoka to withdraw from the talks without notice if the Kenya Kwanza team shows contempt. He has also urged the Wiper leader to ensure issues raised by Azimio are addressed and resolutions found.

In response to Kenya Kwanza backtracking on addressing all grievances listed by Azimio, Kimani Ichung'wah announced that President William Ruto had granted him explicated power to exclusively pursue negotiations concerning the reconstruction of the IEBC. During Ruto's Mt Kenya tour in Murang'a County, the Kikuyu MP and National Assembly majority leader Kimani Ichung'wah proclaimed that he had no intention to facilitate a power-sharing arrangement with the opposition or explore avenues to allot ministerial positions to the Raila-led camp. As for the possibility of protests, Ruto essentially dismissed Azimio's threats and affirmed that he would not allow protests to resume. The talks between Azimio and Kenya Kwanza are set to begin on Monday, August 7th.