Opposition leader Raila Odinga has declared Monday, March 20 is a ‘public holiday’.
The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition leader announced the public holiday while speaking during the coalition’s anti-government rally in Siaya on Tuesday, March 14.
“In the name of Azimio one Kenya Alliance, we declare that Monday, March 20 will be a public holiday.” He stated.
Mr. Odinga made this declaration as a response to the call by NARC Kenya party leader Martha Karua who asked him to declare the day a public holiday to allow Kenyans to take part in the mass protests.
“We ask you, your excellency, to declare that day (March 20) a public holiday so we can get on with this matter [anti-govt’ demos]. We can’t have rigged elections year in, year out.” Martha stated.
Moreover, Karua reiterated that Azimio won the 2022 presidential bid. She also added that failure to open the servers leaves them little option but to rally their supporters to the streets to seek justice.
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The Narc Kenya party boss noted that the mass action is not for Raila Odinga’s benefit but for the interest of the people whose choice of the ballot was violated.
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Nonetheless, the Azimio boss stated that mass action will take the shape of street demonstrations, picketing, boycotts, disobedience, peaceful petitions, and sit-ins.
“Take note that on March 20, 2023, we have a date with destiny in Nairobi. On that day, our supporters throughout the country shall stage a massive procession in Nairobi for a legitimate and inclusive government. Save the date,” Raila said.
Nevertheless, as per the law, Mr. Odinga’s declaration of a public holiday is not legally permitted as it is only the Interior Cabinet Secretary who has the authority to declare a public holiday, according to the law.
