Ruto Offers to Meet Raila Odinga Amidst Political Tension

President William Ruto has expressed his willingness to meet with Azimio leader Raila Odinga upon his return from Tanzania on Wednesday evening. 

Ruto took to Twitter on July 25 to state that the timing of the engagement would depend on Odinga's availability. Ruto has faced criticism for increasing taxes at a time when inflation is skyrocketing. The opposition has also censured the Head of State for failing to keep its campaign promises of improving the economic fortunes of impoverished Kenyans. Ruto's government has argued that higher taxes are necessary to address the country's growing debt and to fund job creation initiatives for millions of Kenyans. 

“My friend Raila Odinga, I'm off to Tanzania for a human capital meeting to harmonise the expansion of employment opportunities on our continent. I'll be back tomorrow evening, and as you have always known, I am available to meet one-on-one with you anytime at your convenience,” Ruto tweeted.  

Odinga's Azimio coalition has organized nine days of protests against the government since March, with some of the rallies resulting in looting and deadly clashes. Ruto's offer to meet with Odinga comes amidst heightened political tensions in the country as the high cost of living continues to create unrest. The ODM leader has also been vocal in claiming that the government is plotting to assassinate him during the demonstrations. Azimio has turned to mass protests and civil disobedience to force the government to negotiate a perfect middle ground for Kenyans. 

The coalition has reported at least 50 deaths and hundreds of injuries resulting from police brutality during demonstrations. In response, opposition leader Raila Odinga has called for supporters to hold solidarity parades and vigils for victims of police brutality instead of further protests. While official figures put the death toll at 20, Odinga's team insists that the number is much higher. President Ruto has defended the police's conduct, saying that the government does not want a country of violence and property destruction. However, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has condemned the police for violating human rights principles.