Decision to Meet President Uhuru was a Painful One, Says Raila

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has opened up on the decision to meet President Kenyatta, where the two agreed to work together in a unity pact.

Speaking for the first since the historic meeting with the President at his Harambee House office on Friday last week, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader said the decision to sit on the same table with Kenyatta was a "painful" one.

“I had no choice but to make a painful decision to work with Uhuru in a bid to realize a unitary State,” said Raila.

Odinga sought to explain the decision that came as a surprise to many, given the bitter rivalry that arose after last year's disputed presidential polls.

 "This was a painful decision. We have seen blood all over since 1992. Since August last year more than 360 people have died, we can't allow this to continue," Raila explained.

He noted that the need to unite Kenyans inspired him to seek peace with his former political antagonist. "We agreed that we must build one peaceful Nation. That is why I agreed to sit with President Uhuru on behalf of millions of the Kenyans I represent."

 "We had to sit face to face and tell him that we have to end the historical injustices. That is why we called the document 'Building bridges.”

He said the pact with President Kenyatta seeks to tackle issues surrounding inclusivity, poverty, corruption and security. “If we agree on all these issues we will build a better new Kenya. Everything is possible if we agree to work together. "

Odinga was addressing mourners in Kisii during the burial ceremony of Prof Tumbo Oeri, a National Super Alliance strategist, on Friday.