ODM Clarifies Raila’s Alleged Message to Gen-Z Ahead of Protests

The ODM Party has dismissed reports of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga calling for Gen-Zs to refrain from planned protests.

A poster circulating on social media purported to show statements made by Raila urging Gen Z protesters to stay home.

The poster claims that Raila had spoken to President William Ruto, who assured him that the government would get to the bottom of Albert Ojwang’s death.  

ODM has dismissed the message, branding it misinformation meant to mislead the public.

At the same time, ODM dismissed another falsified post of Raila defending Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, who is adversely mentioned in Ojwang's murder. 

A section of Gen-Z has planned to occupy the streets today to protest following the death of Albert Ojwang.

The planned protests come days after hundreds poured into the streets responding to Ojwang's death.

By mid‑morning, roads leading to Parliament were clogged as demonstrators blocked traffic, chanted “Lagat must go” and held up Kenyan flags and placards demanding "Stop killing us" and justice for Ojwang. 

The Thursday protests turned chaotic when some protesters torched vehicles, smashed windows and set cars ablaze.

In the aftermath of the protests, a series of events have occurred, including the arrest of more suspects in Ojwang's murder and the decision by Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat to step aside.

On Monday, June 16, Lagat announced his decision to step aside from his position as the DIG Kenya Police Service (KPS) pending the outcome of investigations into the death of Ojwang.

In a statement, Lagat said his decision was guided by a sense of duty and responsibility.

"In the good and conscious thought of my role and responsibilities as the Deputy Inspector General of Kenya Police Service, and in view of the ongoing investigations on the unfortunate incident of the death of Mr. Albert Ojwang, I have today opted to step aside from the office of the Deputy Inspector General Kenya Police Service pending completion of investigations,” he said.

Lagat expressed willingness to cooperate with investigative authorities and conveyed his sympathy to Ojwang’s family.

"I undertake to provide any support that may be required of me during the investigations of the unfortunate incident. I offer immense condolences to the family of Mr. Albert Ojwang for their great loss," he concluded.