Raila Explains Reasons for Calling for Dialogue, Cites Need for Electoral and Institutional Reforms

Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition, has revealed the reasons behind his call for dialogue with the Ruto-led government.

Raila also explained why the signing of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Bill event was held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) instead of State House.

According to Raila, President William Ruto had initially invited him to State House for the event, but he insisted on a neutral venue.

Raila said he refused to go to State House, stating, “They invited me for the signing of the IEBC bill at State House and I refused and maintained that the venue must be neutral.”

Raila also reflected on the events that preceded the 2022 general elections, noting that many lives were lost during the protests.

He said, “Last year we were in the streets protesting against many things. Many people lost their lives, many were injured. They had even planned assassination had we proceeded to go to Kamkunji. We have not forgotten that.”

The former prime minister pointed out that the current Gen Z protests against the Ruto-led regime are a result of the lingering anger Kenyans had last year.

Raila said, “The anger Kenyans had last year has been revived by the Gen Zs. They even told me to relax and stay at home.”

Raila dismissed President Ruto’s calls for dialogue, stating that Azimio leaders had agreed to have a “People’s dialogue” instead.

He said their call for dialogue is about reforms in the judiciary, the police service, and the dissolution of parliament, which he claimed Kenyans have lost confidence in.

However, some Azimio leaders, including Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni and Siaya Governor James Orengo, were against any dialogue with Ruto. Wiper Movement Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has also distanced himself from the ongoing dialogue call.

The call for dialogue emerged during the signing of the IEBC Amendment Bill, 2024, which is one of the key implementations resulting from the National Dialogue Committee talks.

President Ruto and Raila had agreed to commence a six-day multi-sectorial forum, but Raila seems to be changing tune following a wide backlash he faced after endorsing the dialogue.