President William Ruto has expressed his willingness to establish the position of the leader of the opposition in parliament, should the opposition make such a demand. He even offered to provide funding for this office if it helps in better monitoring the government’s actions.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving service in Bungoma county’s Kanduyi constituency, Ruto emphasized that the opposition should work within the constitutional framework. He extended a hand to support their role in the country’s governance.
Ruto stated, “If they want us to create the office of the leader of opposition, I am ready to provide government funding. [Raila Odinga] will continuously point out government shortcomings. I have no issues with that.”
He added, “If he highlights an issue I haven’t addressed and if indeed I haven’t, won’t I address it? It’s not a problem for me.”
While Ruto affirmed his commitment to allowing a robust opposition, he made it clear that he would not permit any leader to incite chaos under the guise of opposing the government, at the expense of Kenyan citizens.
He pledged to safeguard the lives and property of Kenyans, condemning the anti-government protests staged by the Azimio la Umoja coalition.
Ruto firmly stated, “What I cannot tolerate under any circumstances is disorder and the destruction of property, which harms people’s businesses and damages Kenya’s economy. This is unacceptable, unpatriotic, undemocratic, illegal, unconstitutional, and goes against the rule of law.”
This development emerges during ongoing discussions between the government and opposition, aiming to address a longstanding political dispute.
The joint committee, comprising ten members with equal representation from both sides, is engaged in deliberations on various contentious issues. These include the high cost of living as presented by Azimio, a review of the 2022 General Election, bipartisan reorganization of Kenya’s electoral commission (IEBC), adherence to constitutional principles regarding political parties, and inclusivity in government affairs.
On the other hand, Kenya Kwanza advocates for the reconstitution of the IEBC, implementation of the two-thirds gender rule, establishment of the opposition leader’s official office, strengthening the Constituency Development Fund, and solidifying the role of the Prime Cabinet Secretary’s office.
