Opposition leader Raila Odinga has been met with a wave of criticism from Kenyans on social media following his announcement of engaging in dialogue with President William Ruto to tackle the current crisis in the nation. This decision came after the anti-taxation protests led by Gen Z, prompting the two leaders to schedule a six-day multi-sectoral meeting starting on Monday, July 15. The primary objective of this meeting is to facilitate national dialogue and devise sustainable solutions to the pressing issues faced by Kenya.
Upon revealing the plan for dialogue, Odinga expressed his satisfaction with the decision, stating that discussions are crucial to navigating the current crisis in the country. However, the response from the public, especially the youth, was swift and critical. Many individuals took to social media platforms to question Odinga’s stance in the talks, with a significant number distancing themselves from political representation. Martha Karua, Odinga’s prospective running mate for the 2022 elections, labeled the move as a “trap,” arguing that it could hinder genuine discussions on the demands of Gen Z.
In the midst of the backlash, President Ruto welcomed the dialogue, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing Kenya’s challenges. He called on all stakeholders to join forces in tackling the existential threats and difficulties faced by the nation. Despite the reservations expressed by various individuals, Ruto remained optimistic about the potential of inclusive political mechanisms to propel Kenya towards progress and unity. The unfolding events highlight the complexities and divergent perspectives surrounding the proposed dialogue between Odinga and Ruto in addressing the nation’s crisis.