Why I support Raila’s dialogue calls- Busia Governor Otuoma
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma has criticized leaders within the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition for opposing the multi-sectoral dialogue proposed by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
This national dialogue, which aims to address pressing issues highlighted by protesting Gen Z youth, has faced significant opposition from several Azimio leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper Party), Martha Karua (Nark Kenya), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP Kenya), Jeremiah Kioni (Jubilee), Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Root Party leader Wajackoyah.
Expressing his support for Raila, Otuoma emphasized that the forum should not be seen merely as a discussion between the head of state and the former prime minister, but as a platform to tackle the country’s challenges.
“Raila is a seasoned diplomat who would not let our nation suffer under his watch. Hence, he deemed it necessary to engage in this dialogue to stabilize the country, and I fully support his initiative,” Otuoma stated.
The governor highlighted that the governance reform demands by Gen Z have come at an opportune moment, especially as senior government officials flaunt their positions and wealth while ordinary Kenyans suffer.
He noted that the country has progressed significantly from its darker days when abductions, detention without trial, and various atrocities were rampant.
Speaking at the County Field Day and livestock vaccination launch at Busia Agricultural Training Centre, Otuoma commended Raila and other reformists for their sacrifices, which have led to the freedoms the country enjoys today, and stressed that citizens’ concerns should be addressed.
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“The Gen Zs have raised crucial issues that need attention. However, we must ensure that opportunistic individuals do not exploit this initiative for their selfish gains,” he remarked.
Otuoma’s comments followed a critical meeting planned by opposition leaders to decide on joining the national dialogue, which failed to occur on Monday as scheduled.
Azimio Coalition party leaders were supposed to convene in Nairobi to establish a unified stance on President William Ruto’s proposed national dialogue, but Raila remained at his Capitol Hill offices, attending to personal matters, while his co-principals were notably absent for most of the day.
The session was intended for leaders of Azimio constituent parties, including Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Wiper boss Kalonzo Musyoka.
Other Azimio partners expected to attend included Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua, Jubilee Secretary General Kioni, DAP-K party leader Eugene, and Roots Party leader Wajackoyah.
The failure to meet exposed growing divisions within Azimio, particularly concerning an alleged agreement between Ruto and Raila after their recent meeting and unexpected endorsement of the national dialogue.
Some leaders opposing the talks, including Kalonzo, Karua, and Wamalwa, were reportedly unresponsive and “non-committal” about attending the meeting.
Why I support Raila’s dialogue calls- Busia Governor Otuoma
