Decoding NASA's resistance movement strategy

godfred akoto

October 26, 2017 6:19 AM

The political impasse in Kenya ahead of its second attempt at electing a president took a turn for the worse after the leader of the country's largest opposition party announced the formation of a resistance movement.

Raila Odinga's announcement has the potential to charter a new course for the political order of Kenya and Business Insider SSA looks at the potential fall out and main players.

The Declaration

From today we are transforming the NASA Coalition into a resistance movement. Embark on a national campaign of defiance of illegitimate governmental authority and non-cooperation with all its organs. Boycott the goods and services offered by the businesses for whose benefit dictatorship is being established. We shall convene a PEOPLE’S ASSEMBLY for the purpose of charting our way back to constitutionalism and democracy . Mobilize all progressive forces in the country to ensure that a fresh, free and fair presidential election is organized within 90 days.

What is a resistance movement?

Its basic definitiona is an organized effort by some portion of the civil population of a country to resist the legally established government or an occupying power and to disrupt civil order and stability. The mode of strategy to achieve objectives could be non-violent or otherwise.

The potential hotspots

An electoral map of Kenya and its voting patterns immediately establish the potential areas. Kisumu and Mombasa and most of the western part of the country are NASA strong holds

The Leaders

Aside the leader of the party Raila Odinga, there is his running mate, Kalonzo Musyoka, an ex vice president of the country. Musalia Mudavadi is a political titan who will consider himself a potential successor to Raila and then there is Moses Wetangula.

The Wild Cards

Anyang Nyong‘o

The Kisumu governor and father of Hollywood superstar Lupita was the first opposition member to speak about a resistance movement and rebellion “If the government subverts the sovereign will of the people ... then people are entitled to rebel against this government.”

Hassan Joho

The charismatic governor of the very important port city of Mombasa is another NASA member who will be key.

The End Game?

In a politically atmosphere that is becoming rapidly unpredictable and tempestuous, it is hard to tell.

Opposition clashes with police

godfred akoto