A recent media report accused the former Prime Minister of siding with the Kenya Kwanza government.
ODM has firmly rejected this claim, stating that its role is rooted in safeguarding democracy and national stability—not in joining the ruling coalition.
In a statement issued by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, the party said Raila has always supported the Gen Z activists in their quest for justice.
According to Sifuna, the young protesters acted independently and successfully forced the withdrawal of the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
“It is important to put into perspective the events surrounding last year’s Gen Z protests, when young Kenyans took to the streets agitating for their rights and demanding the withdrawal of the Finance Bill. They achieved this while maintaining that they were neither aligned to any political party nor any leader,” Sifuna said.
He added that the ODM leader has also advocated for compensation for the victims of the protests, many of whom lost their lives or suffered serious injuries.
“The party’s position has not changed. We continue to demand accountability, compensation for the victims, and an end to police brutality and abductions,” said Sifuna.
He dismissed the betrayal claims as partisan propaganda intended to distort the public’s view of Raila and pressure him into a particular political direction.
The statement came as Gen Z activists announced fresh protests slated for June 25 to honor those who died or were injured during the anti–Finance Bill protests.
Leaders have called for Kenyans to turn out in large numbers, although the government has stated that no protests will be allowed and that those wishing to demonstrate can do so from their home.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga / FILE
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