Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has criticized the cooperation agreement between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga as a betrayal of Kenyans. He emphasized the commitment of the opposition coalition to defend citizens’ interests during the People’s Dialogue Forum. Despite the historic MoU signed by Ruto and Raila addressing corruption and governance issues, dissenting voices within the opposition remain strong. Kalonzo’s statements and the ongoing dialogue underscore the charged political climate in Kenya.
Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Wiper party, has publicly criticized the recent cooperation agreement between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, asserting that it represents a betrayal of the Kenyan populace. Following the unveiling of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday, he emphasized that the opposition coalition remains committed to serving the interests of the Kenyan people, refusing to compromise its principles for fleeting gains.
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Kalonzo stated, “What has come out of KICC today is the biggest betrayal of Kenyans. The people’s loyal coalition will never trade its principles for temporary comfort.” He illustrated his point by sharing images from the People’s Dialogue Forum at Uhuru Park, highlighting the group’s dedication to defending citizens’ rights.
During the forum, which has engaged civil society leaders since its commencement, Kalonzo reaffirmed the steadfastness of his team, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, in advocating for the rights of Kenyans. He actively toured the forum, promoting dialogue on pressing national issues.
Kalonzo previously urged Raila Odinga to avoid aligning with the government, advocating instead for unity among opposition forces to liberate the nation. Similarly, Gachagua warned Raila against any collaboration with Ruto, reflecting contention within the opposition coalition.
In contrast, during a recent tour in Wajir County, Raila dismissed efforts to collaborate with Gachagua’s faction, citing past betrayals, stating, “The other man said he had set traps everywhere to prevent me from reaching State House for a handshake. So, do you want us to work with someone who set traps for me? I told him that is impossible.”
The historic MoU signed by Ruto and Raila commits both leaders to tackle key national concerns, including corruption, and calls for the implementation of the Nadco report. Despite this commitment, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah expressed strong opposition to the Nadco report, asserting that those in favor of it should be removed from public life, declaring, “Raila Odinga and William Ruto have declared war on the future of this country.”
Kalonzo Musyoka’s condemnation of the agreement between Ruto and Raila highlights a significant rift within Kenyan politics. His firm stance underscores the opposition’s commitment to prioritizing Kenyan interests and defending its principles. The reaction from key political figures, combined with ongoing national dialogues, reveals the complexities in addressing prevalent national issues such as corruption and governance. As new alliances form and tensions rise, the political landscape remains charged and uncertain.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
