Raila Odinga to sue William Ruto over 1982 coup claims

"I was discharged for lack of sufficient evidence against me in 1983. So, Mr Ruto should know I was discharged. I will sue you for defamation," he declared, while rallying his troops for the planned Monday protest march to State House in Nairobi.

Raila was responding to Ruto's claim that he was an anarchist who caused bloodshed, destruction of property and looting for almost 50 years in the country with his demonstration.

While issuing a warning to Raila over the planned demonstration on Monday, Ruto said Raila was not above the law and that he would not be allowed to operate outside the Constitution and established laws.

Raila Odinga was arrested along with the University of Nairobi students in 1982 and accused of treason. [File, Standard]

"You can assassinate me physically, but not my ideas. I am prepared to pay the ultimate price but to liberate the people of Kenya," Raila said.

He added: "We want real liberation in Kenya and are prepared for any eventuality. We will not destroy businesses, we have no problem with the people of Kenya, but we have a problem with Mr Ruto."

Kalonzo told the public baraza at Mazembe grounds in Nakuru West Constituency that Azimio was fighting for Kenyans, and not individual politicians.

He vowed to ensure law and order is maintained during the demonstration and peace was upheld by the protestors.

The leaders said the march in Nairobi kicks off an unprecedented campaign of defiance against Ruto and his regime.