Nairobi —
The head of ODM, Raila Odinga, has demanded that the government provide compensation for the victims and families affected by injuries or deaths during last year’s youth-driven anti-government protests as well as earlier demonstrations.
The demonstrations, some of which became violent, resulted in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries.
During the 62nd Madaraka Day festivities held in Homa Bay on Sunday, Raila acknowledged the recent signs of remorse shown by the administration, such as the public apologies issued by President William Ruto and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula at this week’s National Prayer Breakfast.
Nevertheless, the ex-Prime Minister emphasized that additional measures must be taken to tackle the suffering and losses endured by Kenyans amidst the protests.
“This week, both the Speaker and you offered apologies, which is excellent as an initial move toward reconciliation,” Raila stated, directly addressing President Ruto.
However, we must address the matter concerning individuals who were hurt and those who lost their lives during that period. Today, I wish to express that we ought to provide compensation to the families of the deceased as well as those who were wounded, enabling us to conclude this chapter in our nation’s story with resolution.
Raila stressed that the nation’s leaders desire for all Kenyans to coexist peacefully and harmoniously.
His appeal coincides with moments when human rights organizations and civil society groups have consistently urged for justice for the victims — calling for inquiries, responsibility, and reparations.
On May 28, President Ruto issued a public apology to Generation Z for the wrongdoings perpetrated against them recently. He also encouraged them to prioritize unity over assigning blame.
Apology at prayer breakfast
At the National Prayer Breakfast, the President addressed Generation Z’s concerns about broken governmental pledges, especially after the extensive demonstrations against the 2024 Finance Bill, which suggested significant tax hikes during times of elevated living costs.
The government faced severe backlash for its handling of the protests, marked by allegations of excessive force used by law enforcement, such as firing live rounds, resulting in deaths, casualties, and claims of activists being kidnapped and forcibly disappeared.
“I want to extend an apology to our children — should there be any mistakes — and to our neighbors, if we have inadvertently caused them any harm,” stated President Ruto.
“We want to build relationships that will make our country great, and will take us forward — together, as one.”
He encouraged Kenyans to shift their focus from criticism to constructing unity, commending the creation of an inclusive administration that encompasses figures from the opposition, spearheaded by Raila Odinga.
“We now have a broad-based government that brings in more people, more citizens, into one ecosystem where we can plan together and work together for the greater good of our nation,” he said.
“I want to paraphrase the word of God: ‘How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to live together in unity.”‘
Vice President Kithure Kindiki supported the appeal for generational unity, stressing that each age group holds equal importance and should foster mutual respect.
“Despite our respect for them, listening to their views, and acknowledging our mistakes, they too must show reverence to elderly individuals—primarily because of their advanced age,” Kindiki stated.
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