RAILA ODINGA’S COUP CLAIMS RAISE QUESTIONS: CALLS FOR TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Read Time:3 Minute, 0 Second
By Dr. Isaac Newton Kinity
Raila Amolo Odinga’s recent revelation that he saved President William Ruto from a military coup attempt has sparked intense debate and concern.
His statement, coming eight months after the alleged incident, raises critical questions about the state of Kenya’s security and the welfare of its military personnel.
Given the gravity of such a claim, Raila Odinga should either provide concrete evidence to support his allegations or face legal action for making false statements if they are untrue.
The most pressing question remains: Where are the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers allegedly involved in the coup attempt?
Have they been arrested, silenced, or worse, eliminated? Without clear answers, Kenyans are left in the dark, fueling speculation and fear.
The silence of President William Ruto on this matter is equally troubling.
If indeed there was a coup attempt, why has his administration not publicly addressed it in detail?
This is not the first time that military-related concerns have gone unanswered under the Ruto administration.
The sudden death of General Francis Omondi Ogolla in a helicopter crash, shortly after receiving a chilling warning from Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, remains a mystery.
Since Ruto took power, Kenya has witnessed at least five military helicopter crashes, yet the government has provided little to no explanation.
The secrecy surrounding these incidents only deepens public suspicion.
Before Raila Odinga’s revelation, I had raised concerns about the poor salaries of KDF officers, highlighting their meager pay compared to neighboring countries.
Currently, the minimum monthly pay for a KDF officer is a shocking $55, whereas Tanzanian soldiers earn $413, Burundians $178, and Rwandans $170.
This stark disparity raises concerns about morale within Kenya’s military ranks.
Could the coup claims be a smokescreen to divert attention from these salary concerns? Is the government attempting to preemptively suppress any potential unrest within the KDF by instilling fear?
A manufactured coup attempt could serve as a tool to intimidate and silence disgruntled officers who may otherwise push for better pay and working conditions.
Kenya has seen such tactics before. During the 1980s and 1990s, the late President Daniel arap Moi used the fabricated Mwakenya movement to justify mass arrests and political repression. Many innocent Kenyans were detained, tortured, and even killed under the pretext of preventing an uprising.
Could we be witnessing a similar scheme in 2024? Is this alleged coup attempt being used as an excuse to target and eliminate perceived political threats? Could it be a ploy to create fear ahead of the 2027 elections, paving the way for potential electoral manipulation?
If Raila Odinga’s claims are true, then Kenyans deserve full disclosure. The government must provide a transparent report on:
- The identities and current status of the alleged coup plotters.
- The circumstances surrounding the multiple military helicopter crashes.
- The measures taken to ensure the safety and welfare of KDF officers.
If the claims are false, then Raila Odinga should face legal consequences for making unfounded allegations that could destabilize the country. Accountability must prevail, and no leader should be allowed to make incendiary statements without evidence.
Regardless of the truth behind this alleged coup, one thing remains clear: unless the government significantly improves the salaries and welfare of KDF officers, raising the minimum pay to at least Ksh 50,000 per month, discontent will continue to grow. Kenya cannot afford a military force that feels undervalued and ignored.
The time for secrecy and political games is over. Kenyans demand answers.
Dr. Isaac Newton Kinity
Counselor and Human Rights Activist Former Secretary General of the Kenya Civil Servants Union
With a knack for captivating storytelling, Amos Lumbasi has a talent for crafting narratives that resonate with readers. He combines meticulous research with a captivating writing style to create articles that are both informative and enjoyable to read.
0
0
Average Rating