Alego-Usonga MP Samuel Onunga Atandi has pledged to formally seek compensation for victims of skirmishes linked to the contentious 2024 Finance Bill, promising to table an official request covering both the 2024/25 victims.
Speaking on Saturday afternoon in Malaba, Busia County, during the ODM Party Delegates’ Convention, Atandi said the move is aimed at restoring justice, dignity and healing to families affected by the unrest that erupted during nationwide protests over the controversial tax proposals.
“The pain suffered by innocent Kenyans during the Finance Bill skirmishes cannot be wished away. As leaders, we must confront it honestly and pursue compensation for those who bore the brunt of the violence,” Atandi told delegates, drawing applause from the multitude.
The Alego-Usonga legislator revealed that he will submit a formal request through the appropriate parliamentary and government channels, arguing that compensation is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative.
He emphasized that accountability and people-centered governance must remain at the heart of public policy, even as the country pursues fiscal reforms.
Reiterating government efforts to accomplish agenda number two in the ten-point UDA-ODM Broadbased government arrangement Atandi read out a raft of roads within the locality which had been approved in the current budget for upgrade to bitumen Standard.
Atandi also used the platform to reaffirm the Orange Democratic Movement’s support for the ongoing working cooperation between ODM and the government, noting that the partnership is anchored in national stability and economic recovery.
“As ODM elected leaders, we support the working cooperation between our party and the government led by our party leader, Hon. Dr. Oburu Odinga,” he said, adding that the collaboration is intended to deliver tangible benefits to ordinary Kenyans rather than political convenience.
The MP urged party delegates to remain united, disciplined and focused on reforms that protect livelihoods while strengthening democracy. He cautioned against divisive politics, insisting that ODM’s legacy is built on defending the rights of wananchi.
The Malaba convention brought together ODM delegates, elected leaders and grassroots mobilizers from across the region, reinforcing the party’s commitment to justice, accountability and inclusive governance as Kenya navigates a delicate economic and political moment.
As debate around the 2024 Finance Bill continues to shape national discourse, Atandi’s pledge signals renewed pressure on the government to address the human cost of policy decisions — and a clear message that compensation for victims remains firmly on the table.
