In a historic move that has captured national attention, over 10,000 members of the Luo community have united to petition the High Court for the right to establish their own independent state.
Spearheading this movement is Ojijo Ogillo Mark Pascal, a prominent presidential candidate of Luo ethnicity, who firmly believes that the time has come for the Luos to chart their own course and embrace self-determination.
The petition, filed at the Milimani Law Courts, is nothing short of a game-changer in Kenya’s political landscape.
Ojijo’s plea for a referendum to decide on the formation of an independent state has struck a chord with his fellow Luos, who seek to break free from the constraints they perceive as inhibiting their political, social, and economic development.
At the heart of the matter lies the assertion that secession is not a crime in Kenya.
The Luos argue that their pursuit of self-determination is grounded in a deep-seated belief in change, progress, and a future where their community’s interests take center stage.
Ojijo’s bid for an independent state isn’t merely a call for separation; it’s a bold vision of empowerment, inclusivity, and self-governance.
One of the primary grievances articulated in the petition is the alleged repeated and excessive use of force by the state against Luo demonstrators.
Ojijo and his supporters contend that the government’s heavy-handed tactics have unjustly curtailed their right to peaceful assembly and expression.
Furthermore, the petition claims that discriminatory practices have led to an unfair distribution of resources, leaving the Luo community at a disadvantage.
This perceived bias in resource allocation has fueled a sense of injustice and a desire for autonomy.
Ojijo’s call for a referendum aims to address this disparity head-on and pave the way for an equitable distribution of resources within a new independent state.
Ojijo Ogillo Mark Pascal, in his capacity as a presidential candidate, brings a unique blend of political leadership and advocacy to the forefront of this movement.
He accuses the state of tarnishing the image of the Luo community through media portrayal, painting them as impediments to development and stability.
Ojijo’s passionate appeal asserts that the ongoing ethnic profiling and discrimination must be urgently addressed to safeguard the community’s right to self-determination.
The court papers submitted by Ojijo also seek an order to prevent the state from obstructing his self-determination activities.
This legal maneuver underscores the commitment of the Luo community to pursuing their vision within the framework of the law.
The right to self-determination, as argued by Ojijo, encapsulates the belief that every ethnic group should have the opportunity to form liberation movements and govern themselves, a principle that resonates deeply with many Luos.
