The Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party has declared that it will persist with its countrywide protests on Wednesday, escalating the demonstrations after the Saba Saba Day rally.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, along with other allied leaders, has called on Kenyans to prepare for protests in all parts of the country as the coalition begins a mass signature collection campaign to delegitimize the ruling Kenya Kwanza government.
Expressing gratitude to the large turnout during Friday's protests, Odinga assured the public that the struggle would continue. He condemned the violence that occurred during the demonstrations, where his vehicle was reportedly damaged by live bullets fired by the police.
Odinga emphasized the constitutional right of the people to protest, demonstrating their sovereignty and their ability to exercise it directly or through elected representatives.
National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi echoed Odinga's sentiments, vowing to persistently pursue their objectives.
He announced that on Wednesday, July 12th, the entire country would come to a standstill as Kenyans from all walks of life participate in massive demonstrations nationwide.
Wandayi dismissed the government's demand for the coalition to seek permission from the police before conducting public consultations, asserting that the police would only be consulted to ensure the safety of the protesters.
In Nairobi, the Wednesday protests will be preceded by a major rally at Kamukunji grounds. Wandayi emphasized that the role of the police is solely to provide security to the peaceful demonstrators, and the coalition does not consider seeking permission as a prerequisite from any authority.
Additionally, Odinga announced that the opposition would be collecting signatures to initiate a referendum aimed at removing President William Ruto's administration. The objective is to revoke the delegation of powers from the elected leaders and delegitimize the current regime.
Odinga emphasized that the movement seeks to exercise the rights granted by the constitution and will form an electoral commission to carry out the referendum.