Azimio la Umoja One leaders during a press address at the Party’s Headquarters on July 10, 2024.
The Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party has strongly criticized President William Ruto’s government, accusing it of undermining democracy and stifling political opposition.
Azimio condemned Ruto’s recent decision to appoint leaders from the ODM party to his Cabinet. The coalition described this move as an attempt to “destroy multiparty democracy and seize control of the Parliamentary system.” They emphasized that Ruto’s actions are aimed at silencing opposition voices both inside and outside of Parliament.
Azimio also accused Ruto of “cannibalizing” political parties like Jubilee and ODM, actions they say violate the Constitution and the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) Report. The coalition stressed that Kenyans desire “genuine reforms, sound leadership, and openness in the administration of public affairs,” criticizing Ruto’s approach as superficial and ineffective.
The coalition firmly rejected the proposed Broad-Based Government of National Unity, calling it “the greatest betrayal of Kenyans, especially Gen Z and Millennials.” They highlighted recent police violence against peaceful protesters, holding Nairobi Police boss Adamson Bungei responsible for the use of live bullets and unlawful abductions.
“Any person joining Ruto’s regime has in effect endorsed the killing, maiming, abductions, and torture of innocent Kenyans,” Azimio stated, clarifying that those accepting Cabinet positions do so in their capacity, not as representatives of the coalition.
Reaffirming their commitment to justice, Azimio demanded the prosecution of officers involved in the killings of Gen Z protesters. They urged young people to “keep hope alive and fight for what we all believe in,” calling for continued unity against bad governance.
The coalition thanked their leader, Hon. Raila Odinga, for his leadership and wished him the best in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) leadership. During Odinga’s campaign for the AUC, H.E. Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka will guide the coalition.
