The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has responded to criticism from the youth after the remarks by Azimio Party leader Raila Odinga calling for a national conversation on emerging issues.
In a statement released on July 10, ODM affirmed that Raila Odinga has consistently played a pivotal role in pulling the country back from crises whenever they arise.
The party emphasized its agreement with Raila’s call for dialogue, asserting that it is in the nation’s best interest to address pressing issues in a structured and coordinated manner.
ODM acknowledged that Raila has faced criticism, including insults, for endorsing a 6-day national dialogue to discuss concerns raised by Generation Z regarding President William Ruto’s governance.
“There can be no doubt that as a country, we are at a crossroads and approaching a precipice. One of us has to be magnanimous and patriotic enough to help call the country to order. Once again, Hon. Raila is being called names,” reads the statement in part.
ODM Asks Gen Z to Embrace Dialogue
ODM urged Generation Z to support Baba’s call for a national conversation, emphasizing that there is no reason to doubt his latest proposals which are deemed beneficial for the country.
“We are in agreement that his call is in the best interest of the country and will help address the emerging issues in a structured and coordinated manner,” the statement read further.
Also Read: Tables Turn on Raila as Gen Zs Write to African Union
“His proposal will ensure accountability, including timelines within which the issues agreed on must be realized.”
Furthermore, ODM highlighted its participation in protests against the Finance Bill 2023 which was eventually passed into law despite their opposition.
The party also alleged that Raila was specifically targeted for assassination during these protests, but they exercised patience throughout the ordeal.
“Out of that persistence came the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which President William Ruto signed into law yesterday,” ODM said.
“We agree that it was proper and worth it that our party leader should be at the event, in honor of those who were killed and maimed during the protests.”
Also Read: Ruto Announces Day Talks with Gen Z’s Will Start, Clarifies Who Will Bear Cost
Raila Responds After Backlash
However, the former Prime Minister while taking to his X account stated, “I have been informed by the leaders that you have said you do not want the handshake. The message has been received.”
Raila made the remarks after a meeting with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Faith Odhiambo, Eddy Oketch and Nominated Senator Crystal Asige.
This comes after Kenyan youth strongly opposed Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the Chairperson of the African Union Commission in the upcoming elections citing his perceived lack of engagement and vision for youth development.
NARC Kenya Party Leader Martha Karua also emphasized the need for political leaders to address the authentic demands for accountability and reforms voiced by the youth, without diversion.
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