Odinga, Karua Disagree on the Resumption of Protests

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has differed with his 2022 running mate Martha Karua regarding the next steps to take as negotiations with the government are on the brink of collapse.

Karua asserts that based on the original reason for forming the dialogue team, Azimio has a valid claim to go back to the streets. Meanwhile, Odinga thinks pursuing drastic solutions is not yet warranted, as the dialogue effort has yet to exhaust all avenues. Karua stresses the importance of incorporating the cost of living, electoral justice, and political rights in the final Kenya Kwanza team report, with no partiality in its approach to key issues.

Speaking at the Narc Kenya offices in Nairobi yesterday, Martha Karua shared her distinctive viewpoint, opposing that of Odinga’s. The Azimio leader addressed the media exclusively at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation where he delved greatly into criticizing the discrepancy in President William Ruto’s petroleum agreement with Gulf countries, only brushing over the subject of the National Dialogue Committee when questioned by reporters. He further dismissed threats targeting the ongoing talks, affirming that it is premature to do so.

According to a recent report, the cost of living has increased by 16 per cent, and Ms Karua has publicly condemned the government for withdrawing ongoing cases and kidnapping entrepreneurs in violation of the law. Unfortunately, It has been revealed that the teams involved in the talks have been unable to agree on methods to reduce the cost of living. While the Kenya Kwanza side contends that the government cannot tackle fuel prices, Azimio’s team is pushing for an 8 per cent deduction in the Value Added Tax on petroleum products.

Mr Odinga’s team is dedicated to broadening social welfare initiatives, like providing financial aid to those in need. However, Kenya Kwanza has dismissed this suggestion due to insufficient funding. The opposition also aims to do away with the contentious 3 per cent housing levy and allow salaried Kenyans to choose whether or not to contribute. Additionally, they seek to restore the 16 per cent VAT on the transfer of certain business assets, helicopters, helicopter spare parts, and related items. Mr Odinga has made it clear that if both sides fail to find common ground on these issues, the Azimio team will refuse to endorse the final report.