Raila Threatens To Resume Nationwide Protests In 2024, Issues 1 Condition

Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga has threatened to announce the return of nationwide anti-government protests in 2024. 

Speaking on Saturday, December 30 in Siaya County, Raila demanded that the Kenya Kwanza government repeal the Finance Act 2023. 

The former Prime Minister argued that new taxes that came with the act have led to a tough economic situation across the country.

"We said the cost of living is high, and we told the government not to increase taxes. However, they went ahead and raised taxes, causing significant losses for Kenyans. We declare that in the new year, this tax law must be repealed. If they do not repeal the Finance Act 2023, we will return to the streets," Raila threatened. 

The opposition chief on August called off the anti-government protests to pave the way for dialogue between Azimio and the Kenya Kwanza government.

The two coalitions formed a committee led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and National Assembly Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah.

Following the bipartisan talks, the committee in November released its report and made recommendations.

Raila endorsed the recommendations in the report saying the opposition got positive results from many issues they had set out.

The ODM leader however mentioned that the report was incomplete as it failed to address the high cost of living.

“We will seek other ways to press the government to listen to the cries of the people and bring down the cost of living. Other ways will not be limited to consultation with the people.

“At all times we will retain the right to call out the people to take steps that will deem necessary to force the government to lower the cost of living,” Raila stated.