Raila Odinga Abandons Luxury Vehicles, Chooses Matatu Commute for Work

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Raila Odinga Abandons Luxury Vehicles, Chooses Matatu Commute for Work

Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister and leader of the Azimio la Umoja Coalition, made a symbolic gesture on Monday, July 10th, as part of his ongoing protest against the increasing cost of living. He walked and later boarded a matatu (public minibus) to commute to work. This action follows recent calls from the coalition for Kenyans to boycott buying fuel and instead walk to work, as they argue that the current fuel prices are unaffordable for ordinary citizens.

President William Ruto approved the Finance Act of 2023, which resulted in a record-high petrol price of Ksh195 in Nairobi. This increase in fuel prices has a domino effect on the prices of other essential goods, including food items.

Raila Odinga has announced a new series of anti-government protests, with a planned demonstration scheduled for Wednesday, July 12th, across the country. He criticizes the Finance Act 2023 for introducing various new taxes, such as a tax on petroleum products, a housing levy, and an insurance compensation levy, which he sees as a betrayal of the Kenyan people.

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader Raila Odinga alighting from a Matatu in Nairobi's CBD on Monday, July 10, 2023. PHOTO: RAILA ODINGA

During his commute, Raila was accompanied by his bodyguard and other Azimio leaders. He bought a newspaper at the bus stop, aiming to mirror the daily lives of ordinary Kenyans. Raila interacted with people gathered at the bus stop and exchanged greetings before boarding a bus to the Central Business District (CBD). A matatu conductor urged Raila to persist in his efforts to tackle issues such as police bribery and high fuel prices.

In a video, Raila engaged in conversations and took selfies with fellow passengers, capturing this unusual moment. The matatu, operating on the Rongai-Langata route, functioned as usual, picking up passengers and playing music.

Raila is expected to lead more protests this week following a large rally commemorating Saba Saba last week. These protests resumed after bipartisan talks initiated in March collapsed. The renewed calls for protests stem from concerns about the new taxes and levies introduced by the Finance Act, which will reduce workers' salaries and increase the cost of goods.

During a rally on Friday, July 7th, at Kamukunji Grounds, Raila declared the beginning of anti-Ruto protests, accusing the current administration of ignoring the struggles faced by ordinary Kenyans.

Azimio la Umoja Leader Raila Odinga walking to Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) from Karen on Monday, July 10, 2023. PHOTO RAILA ODINGA

The government argues that the Finance Act will generate more revenue and alleviate debt stress, which has impacted development funding.





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