Azimio leader Raila Odinga is today expected to launch a signature collection drive in its new game plan to try and remove President William Ruto from office.
In a total change of tact, Raila will not lead the demonstrations in Nairobi’s Central Business District as expected.
Multiple sources have told the Star that the Opposition leaders will instead converge at the Kamukunji grounds for a Saba Saba rally to celebrate the 1990 revolution movement in the fight for a multiparty state.
“Raila will lead the rally in Nairobi but the other principals will be in their counties to show support for these demonstrations,” said a top leader aware of the plans.
He will be joined by a section of leaders from the City where he is set to address his supporters at the venue and
Other Coalition’s principals will hold similar rallies in selected towns and centres across the country.
The Opposition leaders are said to have settled on the plan in which they target to collect 15 million signatures as a new front of resistance.
The barazas and signature collections are set to continue in particular towns weekly.
It, however, remains unclear if Raila’s supporters will march to the CBD after the meeting as has been pushed for by some leaders.
Previous attempts were thwarted by police who used teargas canisters and water cannons.
Nairobi ODM chairperson George Aladwa said that upon converging at the historic Kamukunji grounds they will proceed on a peaceful march to the CBD.
“We want to plead with the government and the security not to disrupt our march but offer us security,” he said after inspecting the venue on Thursday.
“The only traffic that we want in Nairobi is that of the people,” Embakasi East MP Babu Owino said.
But, police have warned against the demonstrations in the CBD saying they have only allowed a public rally at the venue and any illegal gathering will be disbursed.
“We want to inform the members of the public that the only that we have legalised baraza is the one at Kamukinji and not a demonstration and we will be there to provide security," Nairobi regional police boss Adamson Bungei has said.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the Opposition is free to demonstrate warning against causing violence.
