Raila: Joining Ruto's Government Would Taint My Image
Azimio leader Raila Odinga has emphasized that reducing the high cost of living must be a key part of discussions with the Kwanza regime in order to find a lasting solution to the country's problems.
Speaking on Sunday during a fundraising event at St Tiberious Ekerubo Catholic Church in Nyamira county, Mr Odinga rejected the possibility of a power-sharing agreement with President William Ruto, saying that he does not wish to be part of a corrupt government. Odinga asserted that he and his colleagues will not be intimidated and will continue to hold Ruto accountable for his campaign promises. The opposition leader clarified that he is not trying to sneak into the government as alleged by the president and his lieutenants.
"We have said we want to talk, but do not intimidate us. We are many and Kenyans are patient enough for negotiations. If you are insincere, we are ready for other courses. We cannot be your slaves forever," Mr Odinga said.
Both Odinga and Ruto have been holding rallies in their respective strongholds with their hardline positions raising doubts about their commitment to negotiations. While Odinga visited Nyamira, Ruto continued his four-day tour of the Central region. In a statement on Sunday, Ruto downplayed the possibility of engaging in talks that could lead to a "handshake" and threatened to take action against the opposition's anti-government protests. However, the former Prime Minister slammed Mr Ruto for claiming that he is pursuing a position in government.
The ODM leader also condemned the recent scandals within the Kenya Kwanza government and warned that if President Ruto continues to rule with an authoritarian approach he will fail to fulfil his promises to the people of Kenya. Mr Odinga further bashed the government's punitive taxes which have caused widespread suffering among Kenyans. The Azimio leader denounced Ruto's government for excluding some communities from government appointments. According to Raila, Kenya is a democratic nation and all regions should be represented in the government to guarantee national unity and inclusivity.
The church event saw the attendance of various dignitaries including Nyamira Senator Okong'o Omogeni, MPS Clive Gisairo (Kitutu Masaba), Anthony Kibagendi (Kitutu Chache South), Obadiah Barongo (Bomachoge Borabu), Irene Mayaka (Nominated Senator), and Dorice Aburi (Kisii Woman Representative). During the event, the Azimio leaders restated their call to the Kenya Kwanza government to reduce the cost of living.