Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has lauded the political truce between ODM and UDA, emphasizing that while it helped safeguard national stability during a turbulent time.
He said the next critical step is to transform the spirit of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) into tangible service delivery for all Kenyans.
Speaking at the Third Cabinet Retreat and Midterm Review of the National Executive, Odinga reflected on the significance of the MOU signed between his party and President Ruto’s administration, calling it a “turning point that preserved the country from tipping over.”
“This is the first retreat since the ODM and UDA signed an MOU that not only preserved the nation but also set out a broad agenda for the creation of a people-centered, proactive, inclusive, and pragmatic service delivery,” he said.
Odinga noted that the performance review comes at a delicate time for the country, with rising demands from citizens for better governance and more participatory democracy.
He cautioned against viewing dissenting voices or protests as threats, instead calling for the inclusion of all views in shaping the nation’s trajectory.
“Both those demanding better services and those seeking power are citizens of Kenya. They deserve a hearing,” he stated.
The ODM leader underscored that national unity must remain above political interests, arguing that policy-making must be centered on citizens, not political convenience. He challenged the government to ensure no region or group is sidelined based on political affiliations.
“Government programs must never leave anyone or any region behind, regardless of how people voted,” he emphasized. “Pursuing an inclusive development agenda is a strong basis for the peace and stability of the nation.”
While Odinga acknowledged attempts in the 2025/26 budget to address public frustrations, he urged further reforms—not for political gain, but to rebuild trust and deliver justice to all Kenyans.
“The government must do the right thing not to win the next election but because it is the right thing to do.”
He called for a shared national ethos, where good governance, institutional reform, protection of civil liberties, and accountability are not partisan issues but collective responsibilities.
“We have to have a country first,” he said. “An imperfect nation striving to be more perfect is better than a nation that went under.”