Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has demanded that Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya coalition, publicly recognize William Ruto as Kenya’s President before any government-opposition dialogue can occur.
Gachagua also questioned Odinga’s authority in Kenya, stating that he is just an ordinary citizen and is not elected by anybody.
Meanwhile, Odinga had previously staged bi-weekly protests against the government but called them off last Sunday, stating that he is ready for dialogue to address key issues the opposition has with Ruto’s administration.
Gachagua made this statement during a church service in Mathira, Nyeri County, on Sunday. He argued that Odinga, who has previously called Ruto’s government illegitimate, must acknowledge Ruto as the Head of State before any engagement can take place.
One of the issues raised by the opposition is the formation of a new electoral body, which they have brought to the attention of President Ruto’s government. The opposition has unveiled a 7-member team to engage in bipartisan parliamentary dialogue on this and other issues.
However, Odinga has warned that he will resume the protests if the talks do not yield any meaningful outcome.
