Speaking amid renewed calls for demonstrations over governance and economic concerns, Oburu emphasized the need for order, dialogue, and responsibility in exercising the constitutional right to protest.
He noted that while peaceful assembly is protected by law, poor coordination often leads to chaos, property damage, and clashes with security agencies.
His remarks come at a time when protest talk has resurfaced in national politics, with several opposition voices pushing for mass action over the high cost of living, public debt, and accountability in government spending.
The ODM leadership has recently signaled support for citizen concerns but maintains that protests must be guided by clear rules and leadership structures.
Oburu argued that political parties should not mobilize supporters into the streets without agreed frameworks that prioritize safety and public interest.
According to him, engagement between organizing groups, political parties, and relevant authorities can help prevent violence and infiltration by criminal elements who take advantage of crowds.
He added that protests should remain issue-based rather than personality-driven, warning that emotional mobilization without planning risks undermining the very message demonstrators want to send.
He encouraged dialogue first, saying negotiations and parliamentary processes should not be ignored in favor of street action alone.
Political analysts say the statement reflects ongoing behind-the-scenes talks among major parties as alliances and strategies shift.
With Parliament currently debating several sensitive economic and governance measures, public pressure is expected to remain high.
ODM insiders say the party is positioning itself as both a defender of democratic space and a promoter of stability, seeking to balance activism with institutional engagement.
0 Comments