The Registrar of political parties has been petitioned to institute a probe with a view to taking action against Azimio la Umoja over the formation of ‘jeshi ya baba’ Force.
In a protest letter to the registrar, Kenya Against Violence (KAV) has claimed the Raila Odinga-led coalition is in breach of the Constitution, the political parties Act and the code of conduct.
The Movement for the Defense of Democracy (MDD), it says, is a ‘militia’ controlled by the Coalition chiefly to cause violence and create fear among Kenyans.
“It is formed to intimidate, instigate or participate in the commission of an offence and other acts of violence in the country,” reads the petition.
“We the petitioners call upon the registrar to take stern action against Azimio and its top leadership. It has created and is maintaining a paramilitary organization called Movement for the Defense of Democracy (MDD).”
According to the lobbyists, the Coalition has violated Article 91 (2) of the Constitution prohibiting political outfits from establishing or maintaining such organizations hence action ought to be taken.
“We encourage the registrar to act immediately to avert a violent revolution in Kenya… We demand that you take tough actions not limited to deregistration of the outfit,” Edward Githaiga told the press after presenting the petition Friday.
Githaiga argued that by Azimio leaders calling for a revolution against President William Ruto’s government, they are creating anxiety and fear among Kenyans.
“Kenyans feel intimidated or are at risk of ethnic, political violence encouraged by Azimio leaders,” he stated.
“We the petitioners believe strongly and know per the facts and law that notwithstanding the completion of the election circle, the Azimio leaders have kept channeling falsehoods and almost an act of sabotage,” he added.
Raila unveiled the youth wing military uniforms and red berets during an Azimio rally at Kamukunji grounds in Nairobi.
The group, Raila said, was formed to help in spearheading his anti-Ruto crusade across the country.
