By Maximilla Wafula
In a detailed statement, the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party has raised serious objections to President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of undermining democracy, violating the constitution, and engaging in police brutality. The coalition rejects the proposed Government of National Unity and calls for genuine reforms, justice for victims of police violence, and continued advocacy for the rights of all Kenyans.
The coalition has accused President Ruto of attempting to dismantle multiparty democracy by nominating top leadership from the ODM party to his Cabinet. This move is seen as an effort to seize control of the Parliamentary system and silence opposition voices. Azimio alleges that Ruto’s actions, particularly the cannibalization of political parties like Jubilee and ODM, contravene the Constitution of Kenya and the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) Report.
The coalition firmly believes that President Ruto poses an existential threat to Kenyan democracy, emphasizing the need for resistance against his administration. They highlight the Kenyan people’s desire for genuine reforms, sound leadership, and transparency in public affairs, criticizing Ruto’s cosmetic procedures and recycling of incompetent officials.
Azimio unequivocally rejects the proposed Broad-Based Government of National Unity, considering it a betrayal of Kenyan citizens, especially the younger generations. They condemn the police violence that resulted in the deaths and injuries of numerous peaceful protesters exercising their constitutional rights, specifically holding Nairobi Police boss Adamson Bungei responsible for these actions.
The statement declares that any individual joining Ruto’s regime is endorsing the police brutality and injustices committed against innocent Kenyans. Those accepting Cabinet positions do so in their personal capacity, not on behalf of the coalition.
Azimio affirms its commitment to stand against injustice and police brutality, demanding the arrest and prosecution of all officers involved in the killings of Gen Z protesters. They encourage young people to remain hopeful and continue fighting for their beliefs, urging all opposed to bad governance to stand united.
The coalition expresses gratitude to their leader, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, for his leadership and wishes him success in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) leadership. During Odinga’s focus on the AUC campaigns, H.E. Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka will guide the coalition.
Azimio reassures Kenyans of its continued advocacy for their rights, asserting that their allegiance lies with the people of Kenya over the Kenya Kwanza regime. The statement concludes with a call for national unity and blessings for both the coalition and the country.