Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Accuses Ruto of Undermining Democracy

By James Mutua

The Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party issued a strong statement on Thursday condemning recent actions by President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza-led government, highlighting several concerns about threats to Kenya's democratic integrity and constitutional adherence.

The coalition criticized President Ruto for nominating top leaders from one of its constituent parties, the ODM, to his Cabinet, calling it an attempt to undermine multiparty democracy and seize control of the Parliamentary system. They argued that this move aims to silence opposition voices both within and outside Parliament.

Additionally, they accused Ruto of systematically weakening political parties, particularly Jubilee and ODM, in a manner that contradicts the Constitution of Kenya and the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) Report. They believe these actions are detrimental to Kenya’s democratic framework and view President Ruto as an existential threat to democracy, asserting that his actions must be resisted to preserve democratic principles.

The coalition emphasized the need for genuine reforms, competent leadership, and transparency in public administration. They argued that Ruto’s approach, described as "cosmetic procedures and incompetence recycling," will not address these needs.

Azimio firmly stated that they will neither support nor participate in the proposed Broad-Based Government of National Unity, regarding this initiative as a betrayal of Kenyans, particularly Gen Z and Millennials. The coalition condemned the police violence that resulted in the deaths of 60 young Kenyans and the injury of hundreds more during peaceful protests, accusing Nairobi Police boss Adamson Bungei of commanding these violent actions.

The coalition declared that any members joining Ruto’s regime are endorsing the government's actions, including violence against protesters. They clarified that those accepting Cabinet nominations do so in their individual capacity, not as representatives of the coalition. Azimio affirmed its commitment to fighting against injustice and police brutality, demanding the arrest and prosecution of officers responsible for shooting and killing protesters.

Addressing the youth, Azimio encouraged perseverance and collective action against bad governance, assuring them that there is hope for positive change. The coalition expressed gratitude to their leader, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, for his guidance and wished him success in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) leadership.

In the meantime, H.E. Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka said that he will guide the coalition as Odinga focuses on his AUC campaign. Azimio reassured Kenyans that they will continue to advocate for their rights, emphasizing that their loyalty lies with the people of Kenya over the Kenya Kwanza regime.




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