Opposition Leader Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka addresses the congregation at the OKOA Katiba conference held at Ufungamano House in Nairobi.
By Peace Muthoka.
Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance, launched the “Okoa Katiba” initiative, a movement demanding urgent reforms in Kenya’s political, social, and economic sectors. The event, attended by key opposition figures, aimed to address growing concerns over government policies and their impact on the country’s democratic integrity.
Kalonzo Musyoka, who spearheaded the conference, voiced serious concerns about several government policies, particularly those that the opposition believes undermine constitutional rights and social equity. The opposition leaders argued that the current administration’s approach is eroding the gains made in Kenya’s democracy and threatening the rights of its citizens.
One of the central topics of the discussion was the controversial new university funding model introduced by the government. Musyoka and his panel described this policy as discriminatory, asserting that it disproportionately affects students from less privileged backgrounds. They argued that the model increases educational inequality and places undue financial burdens on families, making higher education less accessible to many Kenyans.
The conference also touched on the mixed outcomes of Kenya’s devolution process. While recognizing the progress made in decentralizing power, the leaders highlighted persistent issues such as corruption, tribalism, and nepotism. According to the panel, these problems continue to hinder fair access to opportunities and prevent equitable development across the country.
Musyoka strongly condemned the recent police crackdowns on young protesters and journalists, emphasizing that these individuals were merely exercising their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and free expression. He criticized the government’s use of excessive force, labeling these actions as oppressive tactics meant to silence dissent.
Adding to the criticisms, Musyoka denounced attempts by some government officials to extend presidential terms, describing these efforts as dictatorial. He also accused President William Ruto of crimes against humanity and warned that such maneuvers threaten to unravel the democratic fabric that Kenyans have fought hard to build.
Eugene Wamalwa, the DAP-Kenya Party Leader, took the opportunity to criticize the 2023 and 2024 finance bills, arguing that they failed to address the country’s economic inequalities. Wamalwa also expressed outrage over the tragic state of over 300 young people discovered in a Nairobi morgue, framing this as a glaring example of the government’s neglect of its citizens.
Wamalwa further criticized Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni for his recent verbal attacks on Kenyan MP Babu Owino, an ally of activist Bobi Wine. Wamalwa called on Museveni to respect democratic values and uphold regional solidarity, stressing that such attacks only serve to undermine efforts for peace and democracy in East Africa.
Babu Owino, representing Embakasi East, reaffirmed his commitment to the Kenyan Constitution and condemned Museveni’s remarks. Owino advocated for a balanced approach to power and gender issues, urging leaders to uphold democratic principles and protect the rights of all citizens.
Peter Munya, the PNU Party Leader, also spoke at the event, criticizing the government’s handling of education funding. Munya described the current system as oppressive, noting that it forces families, especially those from poorer backgrounds, to struggle in raising funds for their children’s higher education.
Jeremiah Kioni, Jubilee Party Secretary General, addressed the rising cost of living and called on President Ruto to take immediate action to alleviate the economic hardships facing many Kenyans. Kioni also highlighted internal political issues, warning against the manipulation of opposition figures and emphasizing the importance of staying true to democratic values.
The “Okoa Katiba” press conference served as a unified platform for opposition leaders to voice their concerns and call for substantial reforms. The leaders stressed the need for strict adherence to constitutional principles, greater transparency, and the implementation of fair social policies to ensure the well-being and rights of all Kenyans. As the opposition continues to push for these changes, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the growing demands for reform.
