- Kenyans and Azimio leaders are divided over Raila Odinga’s endorsement of William Ruto’s call for dialogue, with many questioning the political motivations behind his stance
- Raila Odinga’s son, Raila Junior is also among those who publicly disavowed his father’s position, emphasizing that there is no consensus among Kenyans for the proposed dialogue as claimed by Raila.
- Despite Raila’s efforts to advocate for inclusive discussions on critical national issues like corruption and unemployment, his endorsement has sparked widespread skepticism
Kenyans, alongside Azimio leaders, have expressed shock and skepticism on social media following Raila Odinga’s unexpected endorsement of William Ruto’s call for dialogue.
Many speculate that political considerations may have influenced the veteran politician, with some suggesting he may have been swayed by Ruto’s overtures or other undisclosed factors.
Raila’s own son, Raila Junior, has been vocal in rejecting his father’s stance, asserting that no consensus exists among Kenyans for the dialogue as purported by Raila.
The controversy erupted on Tuesday, July 9, after Raila Odinga, a prominent figure in Kenya’s political landscape, announced his support for bipartisan talks aimed at addressing the grievances raised by the restless Generation Z.
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These grievances have been underscored by recent protests against the contentious Finance Bill 2024, which youth activists argue imposes undue financial burdens on the population.
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Raila’s statement, made during a press briefing in Nairobi, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in discussions covering issues such as corruption, unemployment, gender equality, and electoral justice.
“After extensive consultations, we have agreed that dialogue is the way forward out of the crisis we are facing today,” Raila affirmed.
“It is crucial that we give people an opportunity to be heard, to express themselves, and to bring forward the grievances that are affecting our country.”
However, Raila’s call for dialogue has met strong resistance from the youth, who dominate political activism in Kenya’s current landscape.
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They argue that Raila’s track record in previous national dialogues has not yielded tangible results, leaving many disillusioned with political promises.
Social media platforms have been ablaze with dissent, with hashtags and memes rejecting Raila’s involvement in negotiating on behalf of the youth.
Raila Junior, in a tweet that gained significant traction, stated, “Umemruka,” Swahili for “You have gone rogue,” echoing widespread sentiments against his father’s position.
This sentiment reflects broader skepticism within Azimio leaders and supporters, many of whom have criticized Raila’s alignment with Ruto’s dialogue agenda amid ongoing protests demanding more comprehensive governmental reforms.