Nairobi ODM Leaders Urge Youth to Cancel August 8th Protest

A faction of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders in Nairobi is calling for the cancellation of the highly anticipated August 8th mega-protest, dubbed the ‘Nane Nane’ march. The protest, organized by a segment of the party’s youth, aims to express discontent with the Kenya Kwanza administration and demand its removal from power. However, ODM leaders, including Makadara MP George Aladwa, who also serves as the party’s Nairobi Chairman, are appealing for the protest to be called off.

The planned demonstration is a response to perceived failures and dissatisfaction with President William Ruto’s regime. Protesters have voiced frustration with the administration’s handling of national issues, prompting them to take to the streets in a bid to pressure the government into addressing their grievances. The protest, scheduled to take place on August 8th, has been framed as a significant display of dissent by the youth against the Kenya Kwanza regime.

Despite the mounting pressure from the protest organizers, ODM leaders have urged the demonstrators to reconsider their plans. MP George Aladwa, along with other ODM officials, believes that President Ruto deserves a chance to prove his commitment to governance and reform. They argue that recent developments, including the President’s dismissal of his entire Cabinet and the formation of a new, more inclusive government, demonstrate his willingness to make meaningful changes.

In a statement issued at a Nairobi city hotel on Wednesday, Aladwa and his colleagues emphasized the importance of giving the new Cabinet time to settle and address the country’s challenges. They noted that the new Cabinet, which includes four ODM members, is a step towards broadening the representation within the government and improving its effectiveness. The ODM leaders highlighted that the recent Cabinet reshuffle and the appointment of 20 new Cabinet Secretaries from diverse regions and professions reflect President Ruto’s effort to form a government that is more inclusive and responsive to national needs.

The ODM leaders expressed concerns about the potential consequences of the planned protest, citing past instances where demonstrations led to violence, loss of lives, and property damage. They urged the youth to reconsider the protest, arguing that constructive engagement and patience would be more beneficial for the country at this time.

Aladwa emphasized that the recent changes in the Cabinet, followed by the vetting and approval of the new appointees by the National Assembly Select Committee, should be given a chance to take effect. He underscored that the protest could exacerbate existing tensions and negatively impact the lives of ordinary citizens. “We cannot solve the challenges facing the country when we take to the streets on a daily basis,” Aladwa stated. “Many people have lost their livelihoods and lives, which as a country should not be allowed to continue.”

The ODM leaders’ appeal reflects a strategic shift in their approach to addressing grievances with the government. By urging for patience and offering support to the new Cabinet, they hope to foster a more constructive environment for resolving the country’s issues. They also emphasize the importance of allowing President Ruto the opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to reform before resorting to protests.

As the August 8th date approaches, it remains to be seen whether the protest organizers will heed the ODM leaders’ call or proceed with their planned demonstration. The outcome of this situation could have significant implications for both the political landscape and public sentiment in Kenya.