Kalonzo Urges Ruto and Raila to Hold Talks on IEBC Reforms
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called on President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to include the opposition in discussions on reorganizing the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
In a letter addressed to Ruto and Raila on Friday, March 28, Kalonzo emphasized the need for meaningful consultation with all political stakeholders to ensure that the process of restructuring the electoral body is fair and inclusive.
He stressed that involving the opposition would boost public confidence in the IEBC and safeguard democracy.
“I strongly believe that since the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are now politically aligned, they must engage with those of us in the opposition. This will help ensure that the process is balanced and does not favor one side over the other,” Kalonzo stated.
He further explained that the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability should guide the restructuring of the IEBC.
Failing to involve the opposition, he warned, would lead to decisions that primarily benefit UDA and ODM, eroding public trust in the electoral process.
Kalonzo urged both Ruto and Raila to learn from past mistakes and commit to reforms that guarantee free, fair, and credible elections.
He highlighted the importance of drawing lessons from Kenya’s electoral history to prevent disputes and political instability.
“As we prepare for the next general election, we must act in good faith and take necessary steps to ensure our electoral system is transparent and credible. History has taught us valuable lessons, and we must not repeat past mistakes,” his letter read.
Since UDA and ODM have signed a memorandum of understanding, Kalonzo argued that it is crucial to clarify how consultations on electoral reforms will take place and who will be involved in the discussions.
He expressed concern that sidelining the opposition would create a dangerous precedent, similar to what led to the disputed 2007 elections and the post-election violence that followed.
“Excluding the opposition from this critical process would risk taking the country back to a dark chapter in our history. It could fuel tensions, divide Kenyans, and threaten national stability,” he cautioned.
Kalonzo also reminded leaders that his position aligns with the values enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya (2010). He pointed out that a similar consultative approach was adopted by the Inter-Parliamentary Political Group in 1997, leading to credible elections in 2002.
He concluded by urging Ruto and Raila to prioritize national unity and ensure that the IEBC reforms are conducted in a transparent and all-inclusive manner for the benefit of all Kenyans.
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