Kenya: Ruto and Odinga Forge Collaborative Framework for National Unity

Raila Odinga of ODM announced that the recently signed MoU with UDA is not a coalition but aims to address Kenya’s political, social, and economic challenges. Key priorities include youth unemployment and strengthening devolution. The agreement emphasizes collaboration between major parties and could set the stage for future political unity and stability.

In Nairobi, Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), stated that the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) does not constitute a coalition. He expressed optimism that the agreement could foster discussions regarding a potential merger in the future. The primary objective of the MoU is to address pressing political, social, and economic challenges faced by Kenya.

Odinga articulated that the MoU aims to alleviate tensions within the country and support citizens in overcoming their struggles. “The key goal of the MoU is to help ease the prevailing tensions in the country, console the population, alleviate their suffering, and move the country forward by addressing the critical social, political, and economic issues our people are grappling with today,” he stated. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the country’s major political parties to promote national stability over political rivalry.

He metaphorically asserted the need to enhance the nation’s structure saying, “They say any madman can kick down a barn, but it takes a good carpenter to build one.” Odinga emphasized their collective responsibility to construct a lasting foundation rather than undermine existing progress. The agreement signifies a commitment by both parties to create a comprehensive platform that incorporates diverse perspectives and addresses the most urgent issues confronting the nation.

Among the prioritized matters in the MoU is youth unemployment, which Odinga identified as a significant concern leading to despair among young Kenyans. “A core problem we agreed to prioritize is youth unemployment and the resulting hopelessness that has made them easy fodder in political contests in which there’s nothing tangible for them,” he noted. Additionally, both parties committed to uphold constitutional values, human rights, and tackle corruption and inequality.

Odinga reiterated the necessity to enhance devolution as a means to foster equitable development. He disclosed plans for the coalition to advocate for counties to receive a minimum of Sh450 billion in the 2025-2026 financial year: “We commit to protect and to strengthen devolution as a machinery for ensuring a more inclusive development across the country.”

He emphasized the role of political parties in representing citizen aspirations and voiced the need for sufficient funding. Furthermore, he indicated that the MoU could serve as a basis for revisiting essential constitutional principles related to leadership, integrity, and the rule of law. Odinga clarified that the MoU does not lead to an immediate political alliance; however, its successful execution could pave the way for a comprehensive political coalition in the future.

“We make it clear that the memorandum we have signed today does not define the formation of a political coalition between ODM and UDA. However, its successful implementation could inform the basis of steps toward the establishment of a broadly constitutive and progressive formation for a stable country in the future,” he explained. He urged Kenyans seeking a united and progressive nation to support this initiative, promoting harmony over political division.

The MoU, jointly signed by President William Ruto and Raila Odinga, is anticipated to establish a foundation for a new era of political collaboration dedicated to fostering national unity and driving economic transformation.

In summary, the Memorandum of Understanding between the ODM and UDA, while not establishing a coalition, represents a strategic initiative aimed at addressing Kenya’s acute political, social, and economic issues. The focus on youth unemployment, enhanced devolution, and bipartisan cooperation signals a commitment to national stability and progress. If effectively implemented, this MoU may serve as a precursor for a broader political alliance in the future, aspiring to unite Kenyans towards collective development.

Original Source: allafrica.com