Azimio Leader Raila Odinga responded to President William Ruto's call for a truce on Wednesday, July 26, expressing doubts about the Head of State's sincerity. In an interview with Al Jazeera at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, Raila questioned why Ruto extended the invitation via social media channels instead of formal channels.
Raila noted that if Ruto genuinely wanted to meet with him, he could have used direct communication since they knew each other's contact details. He described the invitation as a mere public relations exercise, implying that the President was not being serious about dialogue.
The Azimio leader also reiterated his earlier claims that Ruto snubbed Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu, who visited Kenya at the government's invitation. Suluhu's visit was intended to mediate between Raila and Ruto, but the meeting did not materialize due to Ruto's refusal.
Raila further accused Ruto of lacking sincerity in engaging in dialogue. He emphasized his willingness to participate in the parliamentary bipartisan talks and accused Ruto of avoiding the discussions after the opposition called off countrywide protests, bringing about peace in the country.
While Ruto stated that he was open to a one-on-one meeting to resolve the current political impasse, Raila remained noncommittal about whether he would honor the invitation. He had previously vowed to continue with civil disobedience through countrywide protests.
The ongoing political standoff between Raila and Ruto remains a prominent issue in Kenya's political landscape, with both leaders presenting different approaches to addressing the nation's challenges.