Suluhu Came to Mediate Talks But Was Left Hanging, Says Raila

Opposition leader Raila Odinga now claims that Tanzania President Samia Suluhu visited Kenya to mediate talks between the government and opposition but her efforts were in vain. 

President Ruto, who initiated the meeting, did not show up despite Suluhu's efforts. According to Mr Odinga, the government has been resistant to talks, even though the opposition has repeatedly offered to engage. Speaking on Tuesday while addressing international media, the ODM leader accused the President of turning a blind eye to the crucial issues raised despite calls for talks. The Azimio chief also said that other dignitaries have tried to mediate over the talks but President Ruto has refused. 

"She was kept waiting. We were available but the other faction was not available. Suluhu spent two nights here but it was all in vain. I have said I am ready to sit with the people and discuss these issues. Ruto is actually pretending and he is living in the delusion that we don't have a crisis," he said. 

The Azimio leader reiterated that the opposition is still open to having talks with the government to resolve conflicts amicably. In addressing the poor state of the economy, the former Prime Minister blamed the government's bad policies rather than demonstrations. He said that Ruto's government has been consistent in blaming retired President Uhuru Kenyatta yet they have overindulged in borrowing. 

Mr Odinga has attributed the country's current situation to the implementation of bad policies. Speaking on Sunday during an interdenominational service in Taita Taveta, President William Ruto declared that the government will not borrow money to cover their expenses. He said he has been in talks with major lenders including the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank to prevent the country from falling deeper into debt.