Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has criticized President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of failing to address pressing issues affecting Kenyans.
Speaking on Tuesday, March 11, during a funeral service in Kiambu County, Odinga faulted the Kenya Kwanza government for neglecting key concerns, particularly problems within the Social Health Authority (SHA).
He expressed disappointment that despite repeated calls for intervention, the government had not taken any concrete steps to resolve the issues affecting the sector.
While addressing mourners, the ODM leader also condemned the high taxes imposed on Kenyans, specifically singling out the Housing Levy.
He argued that the levy had become a heavy burden on many salaried citizens, making life even more difficult for them.
“I have told Ruto that the SHA has serious problems that need to be fixed. The government must act fast. The taxes being introduced are also too high, particularly the one on housing,” Raila stated.
“These challenges cannot be solved from the outside. You need to be inside the system to push for change and ensure the right people are in place to correct the problems,” he added.
Odinga insisted that he would not back down until all the major issues affecting Kenyans were adequately addressed. He explained that his decision to sign an agreement with Ruto was part of a broader strategy to push for necessary reforms within the government.
Raila Responds to Betrayal Claims
During the event, the ODM party leader also dismissed claims by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka that he had betrayed Kenyans by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ruto.
Odinga defended his decision, stating that the agreement was meant to benefit all Kenyans and was a step toward strengthening democracy. He further clarified that he did not seek out the deal but was instead approached by President Ruto.
“I have heard people claiming that I have joined President William Ruto’s camp. Let me make it clear—I did not approach Ruto; he came to me. My position on national matters remains unchanged,” Raila explained.
The former prime minister also denied allegations that his recent cooperation with Ruto was a political strategy to help the president secure reelection in 2027. According to Odinga, Kenyans will have the final say in the elections and will choose their leader based on their own judgment.
“We must focus on fixing the issues at hand. When 2027 comes, Kenyans will make their choice on whether to reelect Ruto or not. I had initially sought to serve Africa at the African Union, but after that did not work out, I returned home to continue serving my people,” Raila emphasized.
Details of the Raila-Ruto Agreement
Raila’s latest remarks come just days after he signed a formal agreement with President Ruto to establish a broad-based government.
The deal, announced on Friday, March 7, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, aims to foster cooperation between Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Several key leaders from both parties attended the event, where critical agreements were reached. Among the commitments made were:
- Full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report
- Addressing youth unemployment
- Implementing the two-thirds gender rule in leadership
- Enhancing inclusivity in government appointments
- Promoting integrity and ending extravagant lifestyles among politicians
The agreement also aims to ensure that government policies are aligned with the needs of ordinary Kenyans, with both leaders vowing to work together to deliver meaningful change.
Odinga’s latest statements indicate that he remains firm in his demands for the government to address the issues affecting citizens, emphasizing that he will not sit back until real solutions are implemented.
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