Why Azimio Talks on Ruto’s Dialogue Calls Crumbled
The planned crucial meeting of opposition leaders to discuss President William Ruto’s proposed national dialogue did not take place as scheduled on Monday.
Raila Odinga was at his Capitol Hill offices throughout the day attending to private matters, while other coalition principals remained distant.
The session meant to include leaders from various Azimio la Umoja coalition parties, was supposed to clarify their stance on the dialogue, but logistical challenges and disagreements prevented its convening.
The intended venue for the meeting was not confirmed as key leaders, particularly those skeptical of the talks, were unreachable.
Despite earlier announcements of their intention to meet and discuss, the gathering did not materialize, highlighting divisions within Azimio following recent discussions between Ruto and Raila, which unexpectedly endorsed the dialogue initiative.
Some leaders within Azimio, notably Kalonzo, Karua, and Wamalwa, showed hesitancy and lack of commitment towards attending, underscoring the conflicting signals within the coalition.
According to a senior Azimio leader close to Raila, the purpose of the meeting was to find common ground on dialogue and establish frameworks for engagement with the government.
Efforts continued into Sunday night with another meeting called by Raila at Wycliffe Oparanya’s home, which also failed to reach a consensus due to absenteeism among key figures, who were attending a funeral instead.
At the funeral, several Azimio leaders voiced strong opposition to the dialogue, further complicating Raila’s position.
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Critics such as Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni have openly dismissed the dialogue initiative, urging President Ruto to address concerns raised by Generation Zoomers (Gen Z) and millennials instead.
Kioni labeled the dialogue as a delaying tactic by the Executive, questioning its practicality and effectiveness given the current political climate.
Martha Karua, echoing similar sentiments, declined the dialogue invitation, emphasizing that meaningful dialogue requires goodwill from all parties involved and should prioritize public interests over political maneuvers.
President Ruto’s announcement of a multi-sectoral forum starting Monday, involving 150 participants with significant youth representation, did not proceed as planned, without explanation.
Raila initially supported the dialogue, highlighting its potential to address youth grievances and historical challenges.
However, following backlash from Gen Zs, Raila shifted his stance during a visit to Mukuru Kwa Njenga slums, denouncing dialogue with a government he accused of involvement in recent killings, emphasizing the need for immediate action over talks.
Kalonzo concurred, criticizing the administration’s oppressive record and asserting that dialogue was untenable in the current climate of violence and injustice against Kenyan citizens.
Why Azimio Talks on Ruto’s Dialogue Calls Crumbled
