Raila: This is my roadmap out of the mounting youth revolt crisis

In the wake of intensified youth-led calls for reform, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Monday unveiled a raft of proposals aimed at addressing the country’s growing political and socio-economic challenges.

Raila was expected to address a Saba Saba commemorative rally at the historic Kamukunji Grounds but said the plan changed due to a lockdown in Nairobi.

Instead, he convened a press conference at the Serena Hotel, where he outlined proposals, including the formation of a national dialogue forum.

“There are roadblocks all over town, making it difficult for people to access Kamukunji. Under the circumstances, I have decided to speak to the media here,” said Raila, who was flanked by several ODM politicians.

Raila proposed an inclusive, intergenerational national conclave whose outcomes would be subjected to a national referendum.

“I propose a national dialogue that brings together voices from all generations and across all divides. Its purpose would be to identify and adopt irreducible reforms to take the country forward. The recommendations should then be subjected to a referendum,” he said.

The former PM, who entered into an alliance with President William Ruto following last year’s Gen Z-led protests, said Kenya must end impunity and corruption in government.

He also called for police reforms focused on accountability, transparency, and improved police-public relations.

Raila said the proposed conclave should devise sustainable strategies to tackle impunity and ensure leaders are held accountable for their actions.

“I propose that the forum develop a comprehensive and lasting approach to address youth unemployment and expand opportunities in both the formal and informal sectors. This national conclave must have a clear mandate and be composed of serious, sober minds,” he said.

Addressing police reforms, Raila noted that Kenya inherited a colonial policing system designed to control rather than serve the people.

“It is not enough to simply change the terms from ‘force’ to ‘service’. Real reform must ensure that policing genuinely serves the public,” he said.

When asked whether President Ruto supported his proposals, Raila responded: “I have addressed the nation, and the President is part of that nation. These proposals apply to him as much as to everyone else. This is not a partisan position — it is the collective stand of my party, ODM.”

Raila said Kenya’s most pressing struggle today is for good governance, economic opportunity and equality.

He argued that the country’s greatest challenge is how to expand economic opportunities — particularly for the youth — and to lift millions out of poverty, marginalisation, and joblessness.

“Kenyans are clearly yearning for leaders and programmes that prioritise economic inclusivity, social justice, and political freedom,” he said.

Reflecting on the significance of Saba Saba, Raila said the day marks a pivotal moment in Kenya’s struggle for multi-party democracy.

He said the objective of Saba Saba was to repeal Section 2A and restore multiparty democracy.

“Saba Saba was inclusive, democratic, and intergenerational. It brought together elders, youth, professionals, academics, civil society, women’s groups, and religious leaders. It was a people’s movement for good governance, justice, and equality,” he said.

He added that the movement stood for peaceful and constitutional change, hence its focus on constitutional reforms.

“A year after the Saba Saba march, on 2 December 1991, President Moi capitulated. Section 2A was repealed and multipartyism reinstated. We achieved our core aim — returning Kenya to political pluralism,” he said.

“That single constitutional amendment paved the way for broader reforms, culminating in the 2010 Constitution, which enshrined the freedoms and liberties we now enjoy.”

Raila said the ideals of Saba Saba remain relevant and must be safeguarded.

“We are a better nation because Saba Saba happened. We owe it to the brave men and women who risked their lives and livelihoods to demand change. We must honour their legacy,” he said.

He acknowledged the new wave of political activism and unrest, especially among the youth.

“The question before us is: Where do we go from here? Do we descend into chaos or come together as a nation? As someone who helped architect the Saba Saba movement, I choose unity — a coming together of minds in the interest of the country I have long fought to make stable, prosperous, and just,” he said.