Raila Odinga, leader of Kenya’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has threatened to withdraw his candidacy for the African Union (AU) Chair position.
Speaking at a press conference in Dubai, Odinga stated he would not be intimidated by those who believe he should remain silent about the situation in Kenya, suggesting that there are efforts to sabotage his AU ambitions.
Odinga’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions in Kenya, where youths have been protesting for months against what they describe as poor governance under President William Ruto’s administration.
Youth Protests.
The protests, sparked by rising discontent over economic hardships and alleged corruption, have seen frequent clashes with police.
Odinga, a key opposition figure in Kenya, has set forth several demands that he insists must be met before he engages in any dialogue on national unity.
He has specifically called on the Ruto government to abandon the newly proposed social health fund, advocating instead for the retention and strengthening of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).
Odinga argues that the new health fund would place an additional financial burden on already struggling Kenyans.
Furthermore, Odinga has demanded compensation for the families of individuals affected by police brutality during the recent protests.
The issue of police violence has been a major point of contention, with human rights organizations and activists condemning the excessive use of force against demonstrators.
“These are not just my demands; they reflect the cries of many Kenyans who feel oppressed and unheard,” Odinga stated. “I will not be silenced or intimidated.
If my candidacy for the AU Chair is jeopardized because I speak the truth about what is happening in Kenya, then so be it.”
Odinga’s stance has added another layer of complexity to the political landscape in Kenya, as the government grapples with internal dissent and international scrutiny.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a path to national unity can be found or if the political impasse will continue to deepen.
Source: Kenyans X
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