Why President Ruto is Keen on Creating Leader of Opposition's Office

President William Ruto has reiterated his support for the creation of the leader of the opposition position.

His deputy Rigathi Gachagua demands that the issue of the 2022 election audit be removed from the bipartisan talks' agenda. Speaking during a prayer service in Laare, Meru County on Sunday, Ruto said he has no issue with the opposition's role in providing checks and balances on his administration. Gachagua said they were initially against dialogue with the opposition but only agreed after Ruto insisted. Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has disparaged the talks, claiming they are pointless.

The talks are led by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah for Kenya Kwanza and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka representing Azimio, with a 10-member committee expected to present recommendations next month. The church service also delved into the unity of Meru leaders, with Ruto and Gachagua calling for them to work together. Additionally, Gachagua accused Azimio la Umoja One Kenya leader Raila Odinga of taking advantage of the olive branch extended to him by President Ruto, citing his attendance at the Africa Climate Summit last week.

Several politicians in Meru County are calling on President Ruto to resolve a dispute between Governor Kawira Mwangaza and her Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma. The disagreement stems from allegations made by Mutuma that Mwangaza is undermining him and denying his office resources. Senior politicians in the county including Senate Deputy Speaker Kathuri Murungi have also urged the top government official to take action to address the escalating impasse.

Governor Mwangaza has stated that those he defeated in the last election are behind the push to discredit her. MP Rigathi Gachagua said he will summon the governor and his deputy to address the issue and ensure that leaders in the region focus on serving Kenyans rather than squabbling.

Speaking at Bomachoge Borabu in Kisii county on Sunday, September 10, Azimio leader Raila Odinga accused the government of interfering in county affairs. According to Mr Odinga, the 2010 Kenyan Constitution established two independent power centres, each capable of performing specific tasks without interference from the other.