The Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition has revealed plans for an extravagant homecoming celebration for its leader, Raila Odinga, on April 28, 2023. Mr. Odinga has been abroad and is set to return just days before anti-government demonstrations are scheduled to resume on May 2.
Azimio Minority Leader in the National Assembly, Opiyo Wandayi, announced in a statement that Mr. Odinga will be welcomed with a grand procession from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to the Kibra constituency. There, he will address the masses at the Kibra People’s Baraza.
The People’s Baraza will serve as a platform to galvanize support for the peaceful mass action set to recommence in Nairobi on May 2nd. Azimio has called on its supporters to attend the event in large numbers, as they will be revealing their plans for the month of May.
Mr. Odinga’s return comes amid stalled bipartisan agreement talks between the government and opposition. The impasse stems from disagreements over the inclusion of certain members on both sides. Azimio has demanded the removal of Jubilee Party MP Adan Keynan from the Kenya Kwanza faction, while President William Ruto’s camp objects to the addition of Kenya Union Party (KUP) MP David Pkosing to the Azimio team.
The future of the agreement now hinges on negotiations between the President and the opposition leader.
In anticipation of the upcoming protests, Azimio has formally notified the Nairobi Central Police Station OCS of its intention to demonstrate on May 2, 2023. Mr. Oparanya, a party spokesperson, stated that their processions will traverse major streets, including Moi Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue, Haile Selassie Avenue, and Harambee Avenue, from dawn until dusk.