Is a national dialogue the solution to Kenya’s crisis?
ODM party leader Raila Odinga has proposed the formation of a broad-based, intergenerational national conclave to help Kenya address its deepening political and economic challenges. He argued that Kenyans are facing widespread economic struggles and growing human rights violations, and believes a national civic dialogue is needed to “chart a new path” forward. Odinga wants this conclave to lead to “irreducible reforms” that would culminate in a referendum.
But some lawmakers think otherwise. Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo criticized the proposal, saying Kenya’s problems are political, not constitutional. “As much as you want to discuss a conclave, which would end up in a referendum and constitutional amendment, I don’t think we will have addressed the issues,” Maanzo said on Citizen TV. He added, “The country is unhappy with the politics of the day.”
What are the real problems, according to lawmakers?
Senator Maanzo pointed to widespread corruption and weak leadership as the country’s biggest challenges. “There is so much corruption, which is the main cause of all problems, across the police force and prosecution processes. People implicated in graft hold public office, and we have a very weak Cabinet,” he stated. According to him, the only meaningful solution lies in the ballot. “To address it, the youth must register as voters so they can make their voices count in the next election.”
Tetu MP Geoffrey Wandeto echoed this view, saying the issues Kenyans are raising do not require a national forum but direct executive action. “Police brutality and abductions – we just require an Executive decision. Remove goons from the protests, who seem to be working with the police to brutalise people,” he said.
What did Raila Odinga propose during Saba Saba?
Speaking on the 35th anniversary of the Saba Saba movement, Odinga highlighted four key pillars for his proposed dialogue: launching the conclave, initiating police reforms, reviving the fight against corruption, and supporting youth empowerment. He insisted the conclave be led by “the most serious and sober minds in our nation.”
However, critics argue that Odinga’s recent political alignment with President Ruto, despite once being the face of opposition, weakens his credibility. His proposal comes at a time when public frustration is growing due to the rising cost of living, governance concerns, and recent violent crackdowns on protesters.
By Lucky Anyanje