Raila Odinga Cancels April 3rd Protests for Dialogue with Government

Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga has called off Monday, April 3, protests to allow for dialogue with the government.

In a move that demonstrates his commitment to promoting national unity and finding lasting solutions to Kenya's challenges, Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga has called off the planned protests scheduled for Monday, April 3rd.

Speaking from Capitol Hill in Nairobi on Sunday evening, moments after President William Ruto’s address to the nation, Odinga said he had acknowledged the president’s appeal for reconciliation.

“We acknowledge Mr Ruto’s olive branch for a dialogue on key issues raised by Azimio la Umoja. To us this is a positive development,” said Odinga.

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Odinga, however, said the weekly protests would resume next week if President Ruto failed to meet the opposition’s demands.

The Opposition leader has also welcomed Ruto’s statement of reviewing laws on the selection of IEBC commissioners.

“We agree that a balanced parliamentary process co-chaired by both sides and backed by experts from both sides should proceed. In our view, this committee must be composed with immediate effect with strict deadlines for resolving the crisis facing the country,” said Odinga.

The decision comes as a relief to many Kenyans who have been concerned about the potential for violence and disruption, and it represents a significant step towards a peaceful resolution.