Azimio Gives Conditions for Talks With Ruto

Azimio la Umoja One Kenya has stated that they will only engage in talks with President William Ruto’s administration if the priority is to reduce the cost of living. 

Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua welcomed the call for talks between the government and opposition but emphasized that they cannot resume the failed bipartisan talks. He attributed the collapse of the bipartisan talks to the Kenya Kwanza team’s lack of willingness to address critical issues such as the high cost of living. Wambua criticized the government for implementing the controversial Finance Act 2023, which will further burden the people despite concerns raised during public participation. 

“No matter what happens people will have to have a conversation even if it’s to say we completely disagree. We are very clear that if there is going to be a conversation between the two sides then the main issue will be about the cost of living,” said Wambua. 

Despite the failed talks, the Kenya Kwanza team has expressed its commitment to returning to the negotiation table. On Tuesday, the Co-chairperson Geroge Murugara urged the Azimio team to resume talks, saying that they are willing to prioritize the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). According to Wambua, since the bipartisan talks faltered, Murugara’s team has no other choice but to approach Azimio’s principals. 

The protests have become more intense and the Kenya Kwanza regime has taken notice, prompting them to call for more negotiations. According to committee co-chair Otiende Amollo, the bipartisan talks were just a way of calming things down. However, now that protests have become more potent, the government is attempting to bring them back to the table. In the midst of the political spat, Azimio emphasizes that the welfare of the people is of the utmost importance and should be prioritized over any political discussions.