Raila Odinga, the leader of the ODM party, has once again demanded compensation for victims of political protests that erupted in 2023.
Speaking during a consultative meeting with ODM leaders in Mombasa on Sunday, March 2, Raila emphasized that those who were injured during the Azimio protests should be financially compensated.
He also extended this demand to victims of the Gen Z protests in 2024, stating that young people who were hurt and families of those who lost their lives deserved justice and support.
According to Raila, such incidents should not be happening in the country, and it was the government’s responsibility to ensure fairness by compensating the victims.
The Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition, led by Raila, organized widespread demonstrations across Kenya in 2023. These protests were initially fueled by disputes over the 2022 presidential election results, with the high cost of living becoming another key issue.
The demonstrations, which lasted from March to August 2023, had a severe impact on the economy and individual livelihoods. Reports indicated that dozens of Kenyans lost their lives, while many others sustained injuries.
The government eventually entered into talks with Azimio through the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO), but these discussions have since stalled due to internal disagreements within the coalition. Raila’s fresh demands come at a time when his political future remains uncertain following his failed bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
While he has maintained a relatively amicable relationship with President William Ruto’s administration, he continues to voice strong criticism of the Kenya Kwanza government, seemingly to uphold his political relevance.
In January, amid the rising cases of abductions, Raila openly challenged Ruto’s administration, calling for honesty and accountability. His remarks on Sunday indicate that he is not backing down from holding the government accountable for past and present injustices.
At the same time, political realignments are taking shape ahead of the next general elections. Raila’s allies have been engaging with the camp of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, a move that has raised speculation about a possible alliance aimed at defeating Ruto in 2027.
Gachagua, who has been sidelined within the Kenya Kwanza government, has recently hinted at working with opposition figures to challenge Ruto’s grip on power. On Sunday, he made a bold statement suggesting that Raila Odinga still holds influence over the country’s politics.
According to Gachagua, Ruto’s survival depends on Raila’s support, and if that support is withdrawn, it could mark the end of the president’s dominance.
