Raila Addresses Reports of Ruto Imposing Travel Ban Against Him

ODM Party leader Raila Odinga addressing residents in Kakamega on February 25, 2023
ODM Party leader Raila Odinga addressing residents in Kakamega on February 25, 2023
Twitter
Raila Odinga

Azimio Leader Raila Odinga on Sunday, February 26, dismissed reports of President William Ruto's administration pushing the West to impose sanctions on him. 

Speaking at a rally in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, Raila noted that he was not bothered with such reports as his call for mass action and rallies were provided for in the Constitution of Kenya. 

He added that it was Kenyans' responsibility to solve their own problems and not seek assistance from international countries. 

Azimio principals led by Raila Odinga at Jevanjee garden during the National Prayer Day on February 22, 2023
Azimio principals led by Raila Odinga at Jevanjee garden during the National Prayer Day on February 22, 2023
Twitter
Raila Odinga

"I have heard them saying that Raila should not be allowed to travel in other countries for claims that I will bring chaos. I have no intentions (of travelling). 

"We don't have any issues with other countries. We are friends with neighbouring and international countries from the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Russia and African countries. 

"If we have problems, it is our responsibility as Kenyans to transform and solve them. We would not outside interference from international countries," he noted. 

The opposition chief referenced Article 37 of the Constitution which indicates that every person has the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions to public authorities. 

"If we have dirty linen as a country, it is our mandate to clean it. If there were electoral injustices, it is our role to rectify it. This is through the Constitution of Kenya. I would like each of you to read Article 37 which grants Kenyans the right to demonstrate. This is allowed according to the law. 

"So all foreign entities ought to respect Kenyans. Let them respect the rights of every Kenyan. We don't want them to interfere with our internal affair," he affirmed. 

Reports indicated that Ruto's administration sought Raila to be banned from travelling to friendly Western nations should he proceed with his anti-government protests.

Raila on Wednesday, February 22, issued a 14-day ultimatum for the government to lower the cost of living among other demands, failure to which the opposition would take mass action.

"If demands are not heeded within 14 days, we shall lead Kenyans to mass action across the country to restore sanity," Raila stated. 

File photo of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga speaking at a public rally
File photo of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga speaking at a public rally.
Twitter
Raila Odinga
  • . .