Image: ODM/X
On Friday, July 19, 2024, Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Wiper party and a prominent figure in the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition, addressed recent allegations that the coalition might be considering joining President William Ruto's administration. This announcement comes amid increasing speculation and rumors suggesting internal conflicts within the coalition.
During a press conference held to clarify these issues, Kalonzo Musyoka strongly rejected the claims that the Azimio coalition was planning to become part of President Ruto’s proposed broad-based government.
He emphasized that the coalition remains firmly committed to supporting the Kenyan people and striving for better governance, and that any decision made by individual coalition members to join the government would not represent the collective stance of the coalition.
“We want to be clear about our position,” Kalonzo stated. “The Azimio la Umoja Coalition will not support any member who decides to join the proposed Kenya Kwanza-led government of national unity. Our focus is on standing with the Kenyan people and working towards better administration.”
Kalonzo also took the opportunity to address specific rumors about Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), which is part of the Azimio coalition.
There have been widespread reports suggesting that Raila Odinga was considering joining President Ruto's administration, which Kalonzo firmly denied. He clarified that Raila's recent proposals were misunderstood and misrepresented by some media outlets.
“Raila Odinga has proposed a national convention, not a dialogue or an alliance with Ruto’s government,” Kalonzo explained.
“This national convention is a forum for all Kenyans to come together, express their views, and discuss the future direction of our country. It is not about joining the government but about engaging with the public on important national issues.”
Kalonzo’s comments were intended to counteract the growing narrative that Azimio leaders might be split or considering a shift in their political alignment.
The confusion largely stemmed from Raila Odinga’s call for a national convention, which some interpreted as a potential precursor to joining President Ruto’s administration. However, Kalonzo made it clear that this was not the case.
Raila Odinga also weighed in on the matter during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the ODM. He expressed frustration with the media’s portrayal of his statements and denied any intention of forming an alliance with Ruto's government.
Raila underscored that his call for a national convention was meant to address the grievances of Kenyans and explore ways to move forward as a united nation.
“ODM has never said we are joining Ruto’s administration,” Raila asserted. “The media has twisted our words. What we are advocating for is a National Convention where all Kenyans can come together to voice their concerns and discuss the future of our country. There is widespread dissatisfaction with the current government, and we need to provide a platform for these issues to be addressed.”
The idea behind the national convention is to create a space where all sectors of society can engage in meaningful dialogue about the country's challenges and opportunities.
Raila Odinga believes that by bringing people together, the convention can help identify solutions to pressing problems and foster a more inclusive approach to governance.
In response to the media speculation, Kalonzo Musyoka reiterated the Azimio coalition's commitment to its core principles.
He emphasized that the coalition's goal is to advocate for the needs and interests of the Kenyan people, rather than becoming part of the current administration.
“Our priority remains the well-being of the Kenyan people,” Kalonzo said. “We are not interested in joining the government but in working towards a better future for everyone. The national convention proposed by Raila Odinga is an opportunity for all Kenyans to be heard and to shape the future of our country together.”
The statements from both Kalonzo Musyoka and Raila Odinga reflect a clear and unified stance within the Azimio coalition. They are focused on promoting a platform for public engagement and addressing national issues rather than engaging in government alliances that might undermine their objectives.
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