Azimio La Umoja leader Raila Odinga on Wednesday warned of an imminent return of nationwide protests if the government does not amend the Finance Bill 2023.

Speaking at Chungwa House after meeting Abagusii leaders, Raila accused the government of failing to address the plight of Kenyans, who are facing a high cost of living.

He said the government's policies, as contained in the Finance Bill, would only make the situation worse.

"The government has turned a deaf ear to our cries. We have no choice but to take to the streets," Raila said.

He said the protests would start on Thursday, June 8, and would continue every week until the government withdraws the Finance Bill.

Raila's announcement came a day after the government tabled the Finance Bill in Parliament. The Bill proposes a number of new taxes, including a housing levy and a sugar tax.

The government says the new taxes are necessary to raise revenue to fund its development agenda. However, critics say the taxes will only burden Kenyans who are already struggling to make ends meet.

Raila's announcement is likely to put pressure on the government to amend the Finance Bill. The government is facing a difficult balancing act, as it needs to raise revenue to fund its development agenda, but it also needs to avoid alienating Kenyans who are already struggling with the high cost of living.

It remains to be seen whether the government will be able to find a solution that satisfies both sides.