In a spirited press conference in Nairobi, Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance, officially launched the “Okoa Katiba” initiative, calling for urgent reforms across Kenya’s political, social, and economic landscapes. This gathering, which featured prominent opposition figures, aimed to shine a light on government policies perceived to undermine democratic principles and the rights of Kenyan citizens.
Musyoka, at the forefront of the event, expressed deep concerns over policies enacted by the current administration. He argued that these policies threaten to undo the hard-won democratic gains of recent years. Opposition leaders present shared the sentiment that the government’s actions are eroding constitutional rights and contributing to social inequality.
A major focus of the conference was the government’s new university funding model, which Musyoka and his fellow opposition leaders criticized as being unfair. They argued that this model disproportionately disadvantages students from low-income families, increasing educational inequality and putting excessive financial pressure on already struggling households. According to Musyoka, the policy effectively restricts access to higher education for many young Kenyans.
The event also addressed Kenya’s ongoing journey with devolution. While acknowledging the positive strides made in distributing power more equitably across the country, the opposition leaders pointed out lingering issues such as corruption, tribalism, and nepotism. These problems, they argued, continue to limit fair access to opportunities and hinder equitable development.
Musyoka took a strong stand against the recent police crackdowns on peaceful protesters and journalists, labeling these actions as violations of constitutional rights. He condemned the government’s use of force as a means to silence dissent, warning that such oppressive tactics undermine the very foundation of Kenya’s democracy.
The opposition leader did not hold back in his criticism of efforts to extend presidential terms, which he described as undemocratic and a step toward dictatorship. He accused President William Ruto of crimes against humanity and cautioned that attempts to alter constitutional term limits could destabilize the country’s political landscape and jeopardize its democratic future.
Eugene Wamalwa, leader of the DAP-Kenya Party, also took the podium to voice concerns over economic issues. He criticized the 2023 and 2024 finance bills for failing to tackle growing economic disparities and highlighted the alarming situation of over 300 young people found in a Nairobi morgue, calling it a stark indicator of governmental negligence.
Wamalwa did not limit his criticism to domestic issues. He condemned Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s attacks on Kenyan MP Babu Owino, a close ally of opposition figure Bobi Wine. Wamalwa urged Museveni to respect democratic values and the sovereignty of neighboring nations, emphasizing the need for regional solidarity and respect for the democratic process.
Babu Owino, representing Embakasi East, also spoke, reaffirming his dedication to upholding the Kenyan Constitution. He condemned Museveni’s remarks about him and called for fair and balanced approaches to power, urging all leaders to protect constitutional rights and promote gender equality.
Peter Munya, the leader of the PNU Party, joined in the criticism of the government’s approach to education funding. He described the funding model as oppressive, arguing that it imposes undue financial hardships on families, particularly those from poorer backgrounds, who are struggling to fund their children’s higher education.
Jeremiah Kioni, Secretary General of the Jubilee Party, addressed the rising cost of living, urging President Ruto to take immediate action to alleviate the economic pressures on ordinary Kenyans. He also criticized internal party conflicts and cautioned against political manipulation, stressing the need for transparency and adherence to democratic principles.
The “Okoa Katiba” conference underscored the opposition’s united front in demanding substantial reforms. Opposition leaders called for strict adherence to constitutional principles, greater governmental transparency, and the implementation of equitable social policies. As the calls for reform grow louder, the question remains how the government will respond to these pressing demands for change, setting the stage for a critical juncture in Kenya’s political landscape.
