Raila Odinga Demands Compensation for Azimio and Gen Z Protest Victims Before Deal With Ruto
Mombasa – ODM leader Raila Odinga has set fresh demands ahead of a possible political agreement with President William Ruto. Speaking on Sunday, March 2, during a meeting with ODM delegates in Mombasa, Raila insisted that victims of past political protests must receive financial compensation.
He emphasized that those injured and families of those who lost their lives during the 2023 Azimio protests and the 2024 Gen Z demonstrations deserve justice.
“The youth who sustained injuries and parents of those who died in 2023 during the Azimio protests and the Gen Z protests of last year have to be compensated. Those are the conditions we are setting,” Raila declared.
He further stressed that such violent incidents should never happen again in Kenya.
Ruto’s Past Promises on Compensation
President Ruto had previously suggested that his government would compensate victims of the Gen Z protests. However, little progress has been made on the promise. Raila’s latest demand now puts pressure on the government to act.
During the Mombasa meeting, the ODM leader also pointed out deeper issues in the country. He mentioned ethnic discrimination in job recruitment, widespread corruption, and weakened devolution in critical sectors like health and education. He also called for an end to arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances.
What’s Inside the Raila-Ruto Political Deal?
Sources reveal that Raila is pushing for a political arrangement similar to the 1997 deal he signed with former President Daniel Moi. However, Ruto prefers a structure resembling the 2008 National Accord that Raila signed with former President Mwai Kibaki.
Reports indicate that Ruto is considering creating a prime minister position for Raila through an Act of Parliament. If this plan goes through, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua might have to vacate the Harambee House Annex office in favor of the new role. Meanwhile, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is expected to continue working from Railways headquarters.
How Raila’s Entry Might Affect Government Power Dynamics
Political analyst Weswa Biketi believes Raila’s inclusion in government would shake up power dynamics. He argued that Raila’s influence rivals that of the president, which could limit the authority of leaders like DP Gachagua and Mudavadi.
“He will be a dominant figure if he joins the Kenya Kwanza government. Ruto wants a strong political partner for 2027, and Raila’s numbers make him a critical player,” Weswa stated.
However, not all ODM officials support the deal. Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and other party loyalists fear it might damage ODM’s image. Meanwhile, allies like Junet Mohamed, George Aladwa, Opiyo Wandayi, and Hassan Joho have backed the move, arguing it could bring stability.
ALSO READ: Baringo Youths Confront Edwin Sifuna with a Strong Message for Raila: “Don’t Join Ruto”
Raila Odinga Demands Compensation for Azimio and Gen Z Protest Victims Before Deal With Ruto
