Kenyan President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at addressing Kenya’s persistent political, economic, and social challenges.
The agreement, signed on Friday, seeks to foster national unity, strengthen democratic governance, and tackle issues such as corruption, youth unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
“Kenya has endured prolonged political crises that have hindered our development.This agreement is a commitment to ensuring stability, inclusivity, and good governance," it reads.
The pact echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration beyond political rivalry.
“Our nation cannot progress without reinforcing democratic governance and the rule of law. This agreement ensures all Kenyans feel included,” it further states.
Under the MoU, Ruto and Odinga pledged to fully implement the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which prioritizes reducing the cost of living, addressing unemployment, and promoting gender equality.
“Kenya belongs to all, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or region,” the statement reads.
“Public resources must be allocated equitably, and marginalised communities must be included in national development.”
The leaders also vowed to protect devolution by ensuring timely and adequate funding for counties.
“The success of devolution is critical to grassroots development.We must safeguard it from interference and ensure funds reach where they are needed.”
The agreement calls for urgent investment in key economic sectors such as agriculture, ICT, and the blue economy to create sustainable job opportunities for young people.
“Youth must be integrated into political and economic spaces.We cannot ignore their role in shaping Kenya’s future.”
The pact also prioritizes the fight against corruption, with both leaders committing to strengthening accountability institutions.
“Kenya must transition from merely talking about corruption to winning the war against it,” the MoU states.
“We will enhance the capacity of oversight bodies such as the Auditor General and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.”
Acknowledging past violations of the right to peaceful assembly, the pact calls for compensation for victims of police brutality.
“The suppression of constitutional freedoms, including free speech and assembly, must end,” Odinga stated.
“Security forces must be held accountable when they violate these rights.”
This agreement marks the latest in a series of political truces involving Odinga.
His first major pact was with President Daniel Arap Moi in 1998 after the disputed 1997 elections, leading to his appointment as energy minister.
In 2008, following the post-election violence, Odinga and President Mwai Kibaki reached a truce brokered by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
Similarly, after the contentious 2017 elections, Odinga’s handshake with President Uhuru Kenyatta helped restore political calm.
However, critics argue that Odinga’s history of political cooperation often serves personal interests rather than broader national unity.