I don't fear arrests over national rallies, says Raila

The Coalition for Reforms and Democracy, CORD leader Raila Odinga has stated he would continue holding countrywide rallies without fear of being arrested.

While addressing a church congregation at Neno Evangelism Church in Mombasa on Sunday, the Former Premier said he was only representing the voices of Kenyans and that he would not be intimidated by any arrest threats.

“I have been arrested many times in this country, arresting me is not an issue, Ole Lenku you have been appointed to do your work, just do it and don’t politicise issues,” said Mr Odinga.

While referring to the book of Isaiah 1, verse 18, the CORD principal defended his calls for national dialogue to address problems facing the country.

“Come now, and let us reason together, Says the Lord, though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool," read the verse.

“The sovereignty of Kenya lies on the people of Kenya. They can exercise it directly or they can delegate it to other institutions. We are not coming to dialogue with you (government) for our gain but for the benefit of Kenyans,” Raila added.

Meanwhile, Bungoma County Senator Moses Wetang'ula, told the congregation that they had gone to the port city to listen to the residents and the issues they would wish to be addressed during the national dialogue.

The Senator echoed Raila's sentiments that they were ready to be apprehended in their quest for justice and well-being of Kenyans. He affirmed that CORD’s dream was to liberate Kenyans from corruption, unemployment, high costs of living, poverty and increased insecurity among other ills.

“A dream can be frustrated, it can be delayed, but can never be killed or defeated. We want a Kenya where everyone has a right to be proud to be a Kenyan. As CORD, we want equal opportunity for all regardless of your tribe, ethnicity, colour, religion or race,” he said.

Neno Evangelism Mombasa Centre-Bishop Robert Wafula called upon the leaders both in opposition and government to work together to ensure the security and safety of all Kenyans.

He said the rising incidences of insecurity especially in Mombasa County were worrying.

Mr Odinga was accompanied by Kisumu Senator Anyang Nyongo, Taita-Taveta Governor John Mruttu, Machakos Senator Jonhson Muthama, Siaya Senator James Orengo, Kakamega Senator Bonnie Khalwale and Mombasa County Deputy Governor Hazel Katana.