By Wanja Waweru
Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio, claims that rumors that President William Ruto has requested the West to impose sanctions against him don’t bother him.
On February 26, 2023, Mr. Odinga said that despite having friendly ties with the US, UK, China, Ukraine, Europe, Russia, and all African nations, he still considers himself a Kenyan and will work to improve his home nation.
Additionally, Mr. Odinga warned the US and UK against meddling in Kenya’s domestic affairs.
“I do not want other countries to impose themselves on Kenyan issues. We prefer solving our issues internally,” he said.
Mr Odinga stressed the constitution of Kenya gives Kenyans the right to do what they want under the confines of the rule of law.
“The West should respect our constitution. If you say Raila should not visit (the western world), he is not interested. I want to tell those cowards, do not cry foul no one is going to help you.”
In an effort to protest the rising cost of living and what he claims is a move to reclaim his win that was stolen in the August 2022 elections, Mr. Odinga has called for widespread action.
With 48% of the vote, Mr. Odinga came in second place to President Ruto in the poll.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which he claims committed electoral injustice in the polls on August 9, 2022, has consistently come under fire from the former prime minister.
President Ruto, however, has ruled out the prospect of speaking with Mr. Odinga in order to forge a political ceasefire.
However, the Chief of State warns that widespread demonstrations could impede the expansion of the economy.
