Kenya’s opposition leaders, part of President William Ruto’s delegation to the United States, were invited directly by President Joe Biden, Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition leader Raila Odinga confirmed, dismissing notions of disrespect towards the opposition.
Several opposition leaders from Kenya’s Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition have joined the presidential delegation, not through Ruto’s invitation but directly at the behest of the US government.
This revelation came from Raila Odinga, the coalition’s leader, in response to concerns raised by party members regarding their leaders’ involvement in the visit.
“All Azimio leaders accompanying the President were invited by the US government and have my and the coalition’s permission to join the President on this mission,” Odinga clarified in a press release through his spokesperson Dennis Onyango.
He cited historical precedents, such as former US President Barack Obama’s visit to Kenya with a bipartisan congressional delegation, highlighting the tradition of inclusive political representation in international diplomatic missions.
Odinga further elaborated that the presence of opposition leaders in Ruto’s delegation aligns with Azimio’s commitment to Kenya’s broader national interests.
“This mission is in line with the established democratic traditions and the wider interest of the Kenyan nation that Azimio stands for,” he stated, encouraging the delegation to advocate for critical issues affecting Kenyans.
Among the key priorities Odinga highlighted for the delegation’s agenda in the US are increased trade and investment, enhanced healthcare opportunities, anti-corruption efforts, job creation, and improved access to information technology for the youth.
Dennis Onyango, Odinga’s spokesperson, reinforced the significance of the bipartisan approach, noting that such delegations can foster a more united front in addressing national challenges. “The bipartisan delegation is a positive step towards consolidating efforts to address pressing issues facing Kenya,” Onyango stated.
Some of the leaders from Azimio accompanying Ruto include National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, and Homa Bay County Governor Gladys Wanga.
