Bi-partisan Talks between the opposing political coalitions, Azimio La Umoja and Kenya Kwanza Alliance, have hit a snag as the joint bi-partisan team tasked with reaching a consensus is yet to agree on the issues to be discussed and the formalization process.
Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo and Tharaka MP George Murugara, who co-chair the team, have stated that they are working towards reaching a consensus early next week on the framework of issues and the process of formalization.
The two sides are divided on the key areas of focus for the talks, with Azimio Coalition pushing for discussions on high living costs and reinstatement of the Cherera Four, while Kenya Kwanza Alliance wants talks to revolve around the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The team is also considering whether the talks will be parliamentary or ex-parliamentary, or through an executive order.
The joint team is yet to agree on a timeline for concluding formal talks, but both parties have expressed willingness to work together to ensure Kenyans get what they deserve. Additionally, the two teams have appointed Azimio’s Paul Mwangi and Kenya Kwanza’s Muthomi Thiankolu as joint secretaries.
In a joint statement, the ruling coalition announced on Wednesday that they had replaced Keynan with Diddo Raso after Azimio coalition called for his replacement. According to Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, the coalition would call off planned protests if Keynan was replaced. However, as of the time of publication, they had not yet officially called off the protests scheduled for Thursday.
The Raila Odinga-led coalition has been holding protests over the high cost of living and alleged electoral fraud, and has threatened to resume protests unless their demands are addressed. Odinga has insisted that victory was “stolen” from him, and he has been pushing for a new election.