Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition on Thursday, July 6, announced final preparations ahead of the much-hyped Saba Saba rally.
Addressing the media at Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi where the main rally will be held, a group of politicians led by Makadara Member of Parliament George Aladwa and Mathare legislator Anthony Oluoch urged their supporters to turn out in large numbers as early as dawn to protest against Finance Act, 2023.
Aladwa claimed that there were plans to sabotage the planned rally, but asked the supporters not to fear, and instead turn up with their protest paraphernalia.
“You all know that Saba Saba is a historic day. So tomorrow we begin shaping a new history from this venue led by our leader Raila Odinga. We welcome all Kenyans from all walks of life to begin arriving here as early as 4.30 am. We shall be very peaceful and hold a very peaceful meeting,” Aladwa stated.
The coalition leaders noted that they are expecting a peaceful rally, but they have also expressed concerns about the possibility of violence as a result of the aggressive nature of law enforcement agencies.
“We want to tell the government and especially the police to give us peace,” Aladwa said.
While supporting Aladwa's sentiments, Mathare Member of Parliament Anthony Oluoch explained that the rallies had been fragmented in different parts of Nairobi with the same pattern expected in other parts of the country as earlier directed by Raila.
“We welcome Nairobi residents at this historic Kamukunji grounds where the second liberation of Saba Saba happened. The 2023 Saba Saba will officially take place here tomorrow. We want a new Kenya. Tomorrow we are here to start the fourth liberation," Mathare MP Antony Oluoch stated.
Speaking separately to Kenyans.co.ke, a source close to Azimio la Umoja Leader Raila Odinga, there will be surprises in the rally which they claim will be attended by thousands of supporters, ordinary Kenyans facing economic hardship and political leaders.
The Raila-led coalition also warned the police against provoking the demonstrators.
"We have surprises concealed up our sleeves, and we will unleash them tomorrow during Saba Saba rally at Kamkunji," a source told Kenyans.co.ke.
Meanwhile, Jubilee Party on Thursday, July 6, informed the Officer Commanding Nyahururu Police Station of their intention to hold a procession in the town in protest against President William Ruto's government.
"This is to notify you that the Jubilee Party, Laikipia Branch will be holding a peaceful procession in Nyahururu Town on Friday, the 7th of July 2023.
"For the avoidance of doubt, this is not an application for permission as none is required under Article 37. This is a notification to enable the police to provide adequate security to the demonstrators. Your cooperation will be highly appreciated," read part of a letter that was written by Thomas King'ori, Chairman of Jubilee Party, Laikipia Branch.
