ODM party leader Raila Odinga has made it clear that the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report must be fully implemented if his party is to continue working with the Kenya Kwanza government.
Speaking on Monday, March 3, 2025, during a public consultation forum with ODM delegates at Billionaires Resort in Malindi Town, Kilifi County, Raila emphasized the importance of addressing pressing national issues.
“I am meeting with all my party members to hear their views and concerns. Together, we are finding solutions to major problems in the country, such as the high cost of living, SHA issues, abductions, and challenges in devolution. These are the matters we want the government to take seriously,” he stated.
During the meeting, Kilifi ODM leaders backed Raila’s push for accountability and demanded compensation for families of people who died during the 2023 Azimio protests and the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.
Raila received a warm welcome from Kilifi County ODM Chairman and County Assembly Speaker Teddy Mwambire, along with Governor Gideon Mung’aro and his deputy, Flora Chibule.
Other leaders at the event included Senator Steward Madzayo, Kaloleni MP Paul Katana, Kilifi County MP Getrude Mbeyu, several MCAs, and ODM delegates.
Raila’s strong remarks came just days after his return to Kenya following his loss in the AUC chairmanship elections. Since his return, he has been vocal about seeking justice for demonstrators who lost their lives in the 2023 and 2024 protests, demanding that the government take immediate action.
Slow progress
Governor Mung’aro, meanwhile, expressed frustration over the slow progress of devolution. He pointed out that counties are still struggling because the national government has retained control over crucial devolved functions, including the roads fund.
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“We have met with our party leader and agreed to continue pushing for the full implementation of the NADCO report. Kenya belongs to all of us, and we have given Baba the mandate to lead this process,” he said.
Echoing the same concerns, Senator Madzayo urged the government to compensate families of those who died or suffered life-threatening injuries during the protests.
“Before we can move forward, those who lost their livelihoods and were left hopeless must receive full compensation. Additionally, the abductions must stop,” he insisted.
