Kenya’s political scene was shaken on Friday after President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga announced a political cooperation agreement between their respective parties, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
This partnership, signed at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), aims to address key national issues together.
The agreement has sparked strong criticism from various political figures, especially from Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who condemned the deal as “the biggest betrayal of Kenyans.”
Speaking at the People’s Dialogue Festival in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park, Musyoka expressed his frustration, asserting that the opposition coalition would not abandon its principles for the sake of temporary political comfort.
“Our coalition remains loyal to the people and will never compromise its values,” he firmly stated.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ruto and Odinga sets out a framework for joint consultations on critical national matters, such as tackling corruption and advancing the NADCO report, a document that emerged from the 2023 bipartisan talks held at Bomas of Kenya.
Both leaders have emphasized that the agreement is not about forming a new political alliance but rather about fostering cooperative governance for the country’s development.
As discussions around the deal unfold, rumors have emerged that the return of the Prime Minister’s office could be on the table, with many speculating that Raila Odinga could be appointed to the position once again.
This would mark Odinga’s second time holding the office, though there are legal hurdles that may complicate its re-establishment.
Senator Okiya Omtatah of Busia County also expressed strong opposition to the MoU, particularly regarding the implementation of the NADCO report.
Speaking at the same festival, Omtatah declared, “Anyone supporting the NADCO report must be removed from public office. Raila Odinga and William Ruto are jeopardizing the future of this country.”
The ongoing People’s Dialogue Festival, which began on Wednesday at Uhuru Park, has drawn attention from a range of civil society leaders and political figures. Among the notable attendees is former Chief Justice David Maraga, who has delivered remarks during the forum, which is set to conclude on Saturday.
Kalonzo Musyoka’s criticism of the Ruto-Odinga deal goes beyond the agreement itself. He has also accused President Ruto of imposing “punitive” taxes that have negatively impacted the business climate, causing investors to move to neighboring countries.
Musyoka has vowed to lead a nationwide protest against the pact and has called for urgent governmental reforms, including the elimination of the controversial housing levy.
He urged young Kenyans to unite and hold Ruto and Odinga accountable for human rights violations and the worsening economic situation.
This marks the fourth time Raila Odinga, a five-time presidential contender, has entered into an agreement with a sitting president.
Both Ruto and Odinga have stressed that their partnership is not about securing government positions for themselves but about creating a platform for meaningful dialogue on issues that affect the Kenyan people.
Odinga has stated that the deal aims to “reduce tension in our country,” adding that the opposition realized it could no longer simply stand by and criticize but needed to take active steps toward change.
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