Source: Facebook
Raila Odinga, the leader of Kenya's Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has categorically denied recent claims that he is seeking positions in President William Ruto's government.
Speaking on Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Kakamega, Odinga addressed the widespread rumors that his recent meeting with President Ruto was part of a strategy to secure jobs for his faction.
He clarified that their discussions were solely in the interest of addressing national issues and implementing crucial reforms.
Raila Odinga explained that his meeting with President Ruto was guided by the best interests of the country.
The central focus was on the recommendations from the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which aims to address longstanding issues affecting the common Kenyan.
These recommendations include necessary reforms in various arms of government to restore public trust and improve governance.
Odinga emphasized that the agenda of their discussions was to address these issues and not to negotiate for ministerial positions or other roles within the government.
He stated, "We wanted to dialogue to address the issues affecting Kenyans. We did not go to beg. We have never been beggars. If we want to be in government, we go back to elections."
Raila Odinga took the opportunity to clear up misconceptions and misinformation that had been circulating widely.
He denied the assertion that his meeting with President Ruto was to deliberate on the likelihood of opposition members joining the government.
He stressed that his faction has never been in the habit of begging for positions. Instead, their focus remains on resolving the problems facing the country through dialogue and necessary reforms.
Speaking in Butere, Kakamega County, Odinga revealed that his attendance at the event with Ruto on July 9, during the signing of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Bill, was unplanned.
He was persuaded to attend by his co-principal in Azimio La Umoja, Kalonzo Musyoka. This further supports his claim that the meeting was not premeditated with the intent of seeking government positions but was rather a chance encounter aimed at discussing vital national issues.
The National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which formed the basis of their discussions, is a comprehensive document aimed at tackling the various challenges that have long plagued the Kenyan populace.
These challenges include economic hardships, unemployment, corruption, and the need for judicial and electoral reforms. By focusing on these issues, Odinga aims to ensure that the government works effectively to meet the needs of its citizens.
Odinga's stance is clear: the meeting with President Ruto was about addressing these pressing issues and ensuring that the recommendations of the NADCO report are implemented. This approach is in line with his long-standing commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of ordinary Kenyans.
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