According to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Parliament is willing to facilitate and oversee the outcome of bipartisan talks aimed at resolving the current political impasse between the government and opposition in Kenya. The Speaker commended President William Ruto and Raila Odinga, chief of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya party, for agreeing to settle their differences through negotiation, terming the move a demonstration of statesmanship by the two leaders.
During a fundraiser for Chebukaka Girls Secondary School in Kabuchai Constituency, Bungoma County, Wetangula acknowledged that the resolution of the political crisis through dialogue is a noble idea and expressed hope that the process would bring peace, tranquility, and development to the country. He noted that when elected president, one becomes the leader of all Kenyans, regardless of whether they voted for them or not, and as such, it is necessary to consider the interests of all.
The Speaker also defended President Ruto against accusations of insincerity in his efforts to engage in bipartisan talks, stating that Ruto had reaffirmed his commitment to engaging in talks with any leaders for the collective good of the country. Wetangula further asserted that the conversation should not be centered around the last general election because the polls were credible, as President Ruto has been clear.
Regarding the issue of the high cost of living, Wetangula took issue with the opposition and stated that it is incorrect to blame the President for it. He noted that the current budget was prepared by the previous administration, saying that the government was operating on a budget prepared by the former regime, causing suffering among Kenyans. Wetangula challenged parliamentarians to ensure that the 2023/24 budget addresses the fundamental issues faced by Kenyans, such as the high cost of living, given that they know them better as people’s representatives.
The National Treasury is expected to submit the budget estimates for the 2023/24 financial year to Parliament this week, and Wetangula stated that President Ruto’s first budget would take effect in July, with measures aimed at reducing the prices of essential commodities such as fuel and flour. The Speaker urged Parliamentarians to ensure that the budget addresses the concerns of ordinary Kenyans.
