In a significant press conference, Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance, spearheaded the “Okoa Katiba” initiative, calling for urgent reforms in Kenya’s political, social, and economic spheres.
The discussion highlighted several pressing issues, with a strong focus on government policies that opposition leaders argue undermine constitutional rights and social equity.
The panel, led by Musyoka, heavily criticized the new university funding model, describing it as discriminatory and detrimental to students from less privileged backgrounds. They argued that the policy exacerbates educational inequality and places undue financial burdens on families.
The discussion addressed the mixed outcomes of devolution, emphasizing both the progress made and the persistent issues of corruption, tribalism, and nepotism. These factors, the leaders argued, hinder fair access to opportunities and equitable development.
The Wiper Party Leader Musyoka condemned the recent police crackdown on young protesters and journalists, asserting that young people were exercising their constitutional rights peacefully.
He denounced the regime’s oppressive tactics and criticized attempts to extend presidential terms, labeling them as dictatorial. He also accused President William Ruto of crimes against humanity and warned against allowing the current administration to undermine Kenya’s democratic fabric.
Opposition Leader Hon Kalonzo Musyoka addressing congregate at OKOA Katiba confrence at Ufungamano house in Nairobi
Eugene Wamalwa, DAP-Kenya Party Leader, criticized the 2023 and 2024 finance bills for failing to address economic inequalities. He also highlighted the plight of over 300 young individuals found in a distressed state at a city morgue. Wamalwa invoked Chief Justice David Maraga’s 2017 statement on constitutional fidelity, underscoring the need for adherence to the rule of law.
Wamalwa expressed disappointment over Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s recent attacks on Kenyan MP Babu Owino, who is an ally of activist Boby Wine. Wamalwa urged Museveni to respect democratic values and the wishes of the people, emphasizing that such attacks undermine regional solidarity.
Babu Owino, MP for Embakasi East, reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the Kenyan Constitution. He also criticized Museveni’s remarks about him, calling for a balanced approach to power and gender issues.
PNU Party Leader Peter Munya condemned the government’s handling of education funding, describing the system as oppressive. He criticized the practice of requiring families to raise funds for higher education, highlighting the barriers faced by poor families.
Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, addressed the high cost of living and called on President Ruto to take action. He also criticized internal party dynamics and warned against Ruto’s potential manipulation of opposition figures.
Kioni further highlighted the unresolved case of Wairimu Mwangi, who died under suspicious circumstances at Kenyatta University mortuary, as indicative of the government’s neglect.
The press conference served as a robust critique of the current administration’s policies and practices, with opposition leaders uniting in their call for reform. They stressed the need for adherence to constitutional principles, greater transparency, and equitable social policies to ensure Kenya’s democratic integrity and socio-economic fairness.