Raila: Why I signed the deal with President Ruto
The ODM Party leader clarified that the agreement was strictly between ODM and UDA, not the Kenya Kwanza Alliance.
ODM leader Raila Odinga has explained his decision to sign a cooperation agreement with President William Ruto, saying the deal aims to stabilise the country and address its pressing challenges.
Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) during the signing ceremony, Raila stated that the agreement seeks to tackle Kenya’s persistent social, economic, and political issues.
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President Ruto was also present at the event.
Raila revealed that teams from both ODM and UDA had drafted the agreement some time ago, but he delayed signing it to allow for consultations. He said he was expected to sign the deal after his failed African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship bid.
"The two teams had already finalised the agreement and wanted it signed, but I told them I would not do so until I consulted our people," Raila said on Friday.
Raila said he visited at least 10 counties across different regions to gauge public opinion.
"That was what we call random sampling—I wanted to feel the pulse of my supporters. After hearing their views, I am now here to sign this document," Raila stated.
The ODM Party leader clarified that the agreement was strictly between ODM and UDA, not the Kenya Kwanza Alliance.
"Today, we have signed a memorandum of understanding between ODM and UDA. The core objective of this MoU is to ease the prevailing tensions in the country," Raila stated.
He added that the agreement would help reconcile the population and ease their struggles by addressing key national issues.
As leaders of the country’s two largest political parties, Raila said they recognised the need to work together rather than engage in endless political fights.
"We have agreed to build our country rather than tear it down," Raila said.
"We will use our parties as broad platforms to bring together diverse voices, opinions, and concerns to address the country’s most pressing challenges."
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