NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has rejected Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga’s recent proposal for a national dialogue aimed at resolving Kenya’s challenges. Gachagua contended that Odinga’s past engagements in such talks have failed to yield tangible results.
Earlier this past week, Mr. Odinga acknowledged the economic hardships and human rights violations currently facing Kenyans. In response, he proposed the establishment of what he termed a ‘national conclave’ to define a new direction for the country through collective civic engagement and reform.
Speaking to Kenyans residing in Seattle, Washington State, Mr. Gachagua asserted that Mr. Odinga is opportunistic, consistently seeking entry into every administration through dialogue. However, he alleged that when circumstances become unfavorable, Mr. Odinga frequently disassociates himself from the ensuing difficulties.
“Raila is totally irrelevant in the political discourse because every election cycle, he loses and finds his way into government. He wants to be in government but doesn’t want responsibility. He is there, but somebody else takes the flak,” Mr. Gachagua remarked.
He continued, “Right now, he finds things are too hot for Ruto; he tries to distance himself, but if he were a patriotic Kenyan and he meant well for our country, he would disengage from Kasongo, but he’s talking when his mouth is full.”
The former Deputy President reiterated that the ultimate solution for removing President William Ruto from power lies in the 2027 General Election, appealing to Kenyans to persevere through the remaining two years.
“The dialogue we need is in the ballot box in 2027. Raila has been in every dialogue, but the problems of Kenya don’t end. What we need is transformative leadership. It is time we persevere for two years and sort out this matter, once and for all,” Mr. Gachagua noted.
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He further emphasized, “Let us agree we have a problem and not try to fix it with half measures. I don’t think the Kenyan problem is talking to William Ruto. Even what you will agree will be a lie, so there’s nothing we can discuss with him because it cannot work.”
Mr. Odinga’s proposal for a national dialogue emerged against the backdrop of the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba protests, which saw demonstrators engage in running battles with the police.
This period has been marked by growing public discontent with President Ruto’s administration, fueled by the escalating cost of living and a series of police crackdowns on government critics and street protests, many of which have resulted in fatalities and injuries.
