Here’s Why I Won’t Join Ruto’s Government – Senator Onyonka

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has firmly declared his unwillingness to accept any job offer from the current administration.

The Senator, elected on an ODM ticket, expresses reservations about working under President William Ruto’s leadership, citing concerns that his forthright opinions and criticisms would likely be at odds with the Head of State’s views. Onyonka emphasizes his commitment to his role as an opposition senator, stating that his primary responsibility is to provide oversight and hold the government accountable. He asserts that his election to the Senate was not intended as an endorsement of government policies, but rather as a mandate to scrutinize and challenge them when necessary.

The senator’s remarks come amid a complex political environment where ODM leader Raila Odinga has entered into a working arrangement with President Ruto. Despite this alignment at the party leadership level, Onyonka remains steadfast in his opposition role. He criticizes ODM leaders who have accepted government positions and suggests that their newfound appreciation for being in power might be clouding their judgment. The senator has also addressed specific policy concerns, particularly in the education sector.

“If they can influence the government to change its policies on many things including education, we will keep quiet, but if the current state continues, we will continue telling the government the truth.” he said during an interview on Radio Jambo on Thursday.

He argues that if ODM leaders within the government could influence positive policy changes, the opposition would have less reason to criticize. However, Onyonka expresses scepticism about the likelihood of such changes occurring under the current circumstances. Onyonka further asserts that Raila has not instructed party members to collaborate with the government, emphasizing that any agreement between Odinga and President William Ruto is purely bilateral. The senator maintains that the ODM will continue its opposition role, despite the appointment of several party members to Cabinet positions.

While Odinga has acknowledged assisting President Ruto during recent protests, he clarifies that the involvement of ODM members in the Cabinet is based on their individual merits rather than party directives.