Former Prime Minister and leader of the Azimio la Umoja Coalition, Raila Odinga, made a bold statement on Monday, July 10, by walking and later boarding a matatu (minibus) to work. This action marked his intensified protest against the escalating cost of living in Kenya.
Raila's decision to use public transportation came in the wake of renewed calls for Kenyans to walk to work and boycott purchasing fuel, which the coalition argued was unaffordable for ordinary citizens. The Finance Act of 2023, signed into law by President William Ruto, had resulted in a record-high petrol price of Ksh195 in Nairobi, consequently impacting the prices of other essential commodities, including food items.
Amid plans for a nationwide demonstration on Wednesday, July 12, Raila launched a fresh wave of anti-government protests. He criticized the Finance Act for introducing several new taxes, including a petroleum tax, a housing levy, and an insurance compensation levy, which he denounced as a betrayal of the Kenyan people.
During his commute, Raila was accompanied by his bodyguard and other Azimio leaders. In an online video that circulated widely, bystanders gathered and cheered as the prominent opposition figure prepared to board the matatu. Raila interacted with the enthusiastic crowd, exchanged greetings, and even purchased a newspaper at the bus stop, trying to mirror the everyday experiences of ordinary Kenyans.
Passengers on the matatu engaged with Raila, some taking selfies to capture the rare moment. The matatu, operating its regular route from Rongai to Langata, continued to pick up passengers along the way while playing loud music.
Raila's decision to take to the streets by boarding a matatu is part of his ongoing campaign against the government's policies. Following the collapse of bipartisan talks launched in March, the opposition leader plans to lead another round of protests this week, building on the momentum from the previous week's significant rally held to commemorate Saba Saba.
The calls for protest have been fueled by the Finance Act, which imposes new taxes and levies, resulting in reduced payslips for workers and increased costs of goods. Raila, speaking at a rally on July 7 at Kamukunji Grounds, declared that this marked the beginning of anti-Ruto protests, accusing the current administration of neglecting the concerns of ordinary Kenyans.
The government, on the other hand, maintains that the Finance Act will generate additional revenue amidst mounting debt stress, with the aim of redirecting funds towards development projects. The ongoing clash between Raila and the government highlights the growing discontent and economic challenges faced by many Kenyans.
