Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga has rejected President William Ruto’s invitation to engage in discussions regarding anti-government protests, stating that the president’s offer was “not serious at all”.
Ruto expressed his willingness to meet Odinga “anytime” through social media on Tuesday, following weeks of protests against the increasing cost of living and the implementation of new taxes.
However, the leader of the opposition Azimio alliance informed Al Jazeera on Wednesday that the president’s offer for talks was merely a “public relations exercise“.
“If he genuinely wanted to meet with me, he would not have extended the invitation through social media,” Odinga remarked, speaking from Nairobi. “He is aware of my address and telephone number. Essentially, he is just playing games.”
“We are facing a crisis in this country that necessitates a serious approach,” Odinga emphasized. “We are prepared at any time, whenever they are ready for these discussions.”
Critics accuse Ruto of imposing higher taxes as the nation’s economy struggles with soaring inflation and reneging on promises made during the August 2022 election campaign, where he positioned himself as the advocate for impoverished Kenyans and vowed to enhance their economic prospects.
Article from www.aljazeera.com