Raila Odinga, on Tuesday, June 27, issued a stern warning to President William Ruto, urging him to refrain from imposing punitive tax measures on Kenyans.
The former Prime Minister argued that such actions could facilitate the widespread plundering of resources.
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Odinga addressed the nation at Kamukunji Grounds after flying back from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
4:57 pm: The former Prime Minister cautions that Kenya has fallen captive to power brokers.
4:45 pm: Raila says Ruto stole his election and believes he can steal everything.
"We shall do everything to roll back dictatorship," Raila warned.
4:30 pm: Eugene Wamalwa reads resolutions made by Azimio to heap pressure on Ruto. Among them is civil disobedience through non-payment of taxes and protests commencing on July 7.
4:00 pm: Raila receives a warm reception from Azimio la Umoja supporters as he arrives at Kamkunji Grounds. Hundreds of people surround Raila's convoy as he makes his way to the podium.
Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya and Minority Leader in the National Assembly Opiyo Wandayi flank the ODM Party Leader.
3:50 pm: Raila arrives at Nairobi's Central Business District and shares greetings with his supporters. His convoy slows down after Azimio la Umoja supporters arrive in large numbers.
3:30 pm: Azimio la Umoja leaders call on former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to announce anti-government mass action after President William Ruto assented to Finance Bill 2023 into Law.
"Ruto does not understand any language. The only thing he will understand is anti-government demonstrations," ODM Party Secretary-General stated.
3:10 pm: Raila lands at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The ODM Party Leader was picked up by his security detail and a convoy of vehicles, which headed to Kamukunji Grounds via Mombasa Road.
At the rally, which is underway, one of Raila's allies threatens to swear the Azimio leader to pile pressure on Ruto.
3:00 pm: Azimio la Umoja Members of County Assembly, Members of Parliament and other political figures address supporters. The leaders called on President William Ruto to consider the views of the public.
Some leaders also called on Raila to declare a stand on the matter and give a way forward. Previously, some Azimio la Umoja leaders called on Kenyans to reject the newly signed Finance Act 2023.
2:45 pm: Azimio la Umoja plays a video trolling President William Ruto for criticising Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and accusing him of failing to address the hiked fuel and food prices. Ruto served as Uhuru's deputy between 2013 and 2022.
The video provided fodder for Raila to further condemn Ruto for attributing economic hardships to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
2:30 pm: Narc Kenya Party Leader Martha Karua and Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni arrive at Kamkunji Grounds for the rally ahead of Raila's arrival.
2:20 pm: Raila's supporters arrive at Kamkunji Grounds and break into songs and dances. Most of the songs seem to accuse President William Ruto of not listening to Kenyans over the challenges facing the country.
1:47 pm: Maina Njenga and Jeremiah Kioni are among the leaders ready to receive him.
1:40 pm: Reports claim that police were deployed across Nairobi CBD to ensure peace prevails.
1:00 pm: Adamson Bungei, Nairobi Police boss, assures residents that police will ensure the meeting is conducted peacefully.
Police unequivocally pledged to refrain from interfering with or obstructing opposition leader, Raila Odinga, from holding his eagerly anticipated Kamukunji Rally.
Bungei, confirmed that Azimio's request to hold the rally was granted despite protests by Kenya Kwanza fanatics.
Raila is expected to land at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) from United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Reports claim that he will be picked by his co-principals, Martha Karua and Kalonzo Musyoka, and allies, George Wajackoyah and Eugene Wamalwa.
The Finance Act 2023 is expected to shape the conversation at the public engagement forum.
Azimio Demands
In a media address on Friday, June 23, Narc Kenya Party Leader Martha Karua was concerned that the Finance Act 2023 would impose punitive taxes on hardworking Kenyans grappling with a high cost of living.
She appealed to the government to withdraw the bill and engage in meaningful consultations with Kenyans.
