Raila Odinga calls off Azimio's Kamukunji rally

Addressing the media on Wednesday afternoon, Odinga said the move was a 'strategic decision' made after receiving intelligence of a plan to violently attack attendees of the Kamukunji rally.

"Late last night, we received intelligence of a most heinous plan by Kenya Kwanza to ferry armed goons who would attack peaceful attendees of our rally in Kamkunji. These goons had express orders to shoot directly into the crowd while enjoying police protection," Odinga stated in a press briefing at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation.

The Azimio boss further claimed that a team of "hired goons" had raided the grounds and vandalized the equipment being used to hoist the dais and also dispersed peaceful Kenyans.

"In line with the intelligence we received, armed goons have this afternoon descended on Kamukunji grounds and shot indiscriminately in the crowd. Police have used water cannons to disperse those who had peacefully gathered there," he said. 

"In order to protect our people and avert more injuries and the loss of life, we have taken the strategic decision not to proceed with the rally at Kamukunji grounds this afternoon. In any case, the people have made the point."

Odinga went on to assert that they will not relent in their fight against the government, calling on President William Ruto to give an ear to their demands lest the protests remain active.

"We thank Kenyans for taking up our call to fight for ourselves. This struggle is not about Azimio or any other party in particular. It is now about Kenyans refusing to move on until they get a good deal," he said.

"This time around there is no moving on until Ruto shows a readiness to listen and respect the people. People deserve a deal and not bullets or teargas."

Most businesses were shut down across the nation for the better part of the day as protesters engaged in running battles with anti-riot police officers.

Police officers were forced to lob teargas canisters at protesters in a bid to disperse the rowdy crowds.