ODM leader Raila Odinga has affirmed that the memorandum of understanding (MoU) he signed on Friday with President William Ruto will help uphold the rule of law and protect human rights.
Speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre
(KICC), Raila dismissed claims that the agreement was designed to shield the
government from accountability.
"Through this deal, we commit to upholding the rule of law and respecting human rights," Raila stated.
The Kenya Kwanza government has faced heavy criticism for
alleged human rights violations, including abductions and crackdowns on
dissenters.
Raila, who was previously faulted for what was termed as turning a blind eye to these issues while pursuing his failed African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship bid, now insists that the new deal will help tackle key national challenges.
"Through this agreement, we will address unemployment, poverty, inequality, and institutional failures caused by inefficiency and corruption," Raila said.
Raila emphasised that the MoU is centred on building a more equitable society where all Kenyans, regardless of background, have equal access to social and economic opportunities.
"All Kenyans must feel they belong here by right and should have equal access to the resources and opportunities our country offers—without discrimination," he said.
Raila also pledged that the agreement with President Ruto includes a strong commitment to defending and strengthening devolution as a tool for inclusive development across the country.
"We will push for counties to receive a minimum allocation of Sh450 billion in the next financial year," he announced.
Reiterating the purpose of the agreement, Raila explained that the cooperation deal is not about power-sharing, but rather a commitment to stabilizing and saving the country.
"This agreement is meant to tackle the chronic social, economic, and political challenges facing Kenya," he emphasised during the signing ceremony on Friday.
The former prime minister said their deal will protect political parties through timely funding and constitutionalism.
