On Wednesday, July 10, former prime minister Raila Odinga spoke out after receiving backlash for supporting President William Ruto’s discussion.
In a statement, Odinga stated that a majority of Kenyans were against the two of them shaking hands or forming a unity government.
The Azimio leader acknowledged receiving the letter and promised to respond to Kenyans’ calls.
Following a meeting with Senator Edwin Sifuna of Nairobi and his associates, Eddy Oketch and Crystal Asige, Raila released the statement.
“Hawa viongozi wamesema kwamba mumesema hamtaki handshake nimembiwa na Ujumbe umefika,(I’ve been told by these leaders that you don’t want more handshakses. I have received your message,” he said.
The ODM leader was one of the politicians who faced criticism for endorsing the national conversation that Ruto started following the demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024.
After the support, reports surfaced, suggesting that a unity government was imminent. ODM also released a statement cautioning its members not to participate in the demonstrations.
As the party promised to allow for conversation, Ruto and Raila accepted.
“The party head made the call in the same manner as always. Whenever we find ourselves on the verge of collapse, Raila Odinga always helps the nation escape.
“There is no denying that we, as a nation, are at a turning point and on the verge of disaster.” One of us has to be kind and patriotic enough to assist in restoring order to the nation. John Mbadi, the ODM chairperson, read the statement.
The President and the previous premier have provided a specific plan, and they have scheduled the dialogue to begin on Monday, July 15.