Madaraka Day celebrations kick off in Embu
By naomi.njoroge, June 1, 2023
The celebrations of the 60th anniversary of Kenya’s self-rule have commenced at Moi Stadium in Embu County with thousands of Kenyans in attendance.
Today’s Madaraka Day commemorations will be presided over by President William Ruto for the first time since he took over eight months ago.
Security has been beefed up in the region as eager Kenyans await the arrival of Ruto alongside other dignitaries.
More so, Kenyans are looking forward to the president’s speech to address the heated debate around the controversial Finance Bill 2023 set to be tabled in Parliament next week in the wake of skyrocketing cost of living.
Different groups including the Opposition, trade unions and several civil society groups are opposed to the bill saying it is not the right move for the government to take in these hard economic times.
On his part, opposition leader Raila Odinga said he shall rally Azimio la Umoja legislators to reject the Bill in Parliament.
At the same time, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah poked holes into the Bill saying several clauses in the proposed law contravene the constitution.
“I had already prepared a petition to take to court, but when I heard you were coming to Busia, I held it. Because we are friends, let’s not fight. Otherwise next week, we shall meet there (court),” Omtatah said during an interdenominational church service in Busia County which Ruto attended on Sunday, May 28, 2023.