Azimio leader Raila Odinga has called on President William Ruto to implement all the recommendations in the NADCO report to address the ongoing unrest in Kenya. Speaking at the signing of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill into law, Raila emphasized the importance of addressing youth concerns, many of which are outlined in the NADCO report.
The report recommends a comprehensive audit of the 2022 electoral process, restructuring the IEBC with an expanded selection panel, and increasing the timeline for resolving presidential election petitions. Additionally, it suggests that electoral legal reforms passed less than 18 months before general elections should become effective in the next electoral cycle.
To address the high cost of living, the NADCO report proposes reducing government travel budgets by 50%, reviewing Daily Subsistence Allowances for state and public officers, and lowering fuel levies. It also recommends finalizing the transfer of devolved functions and ensuring equitable revenue sharing with county governments. The report advocates for the entrenchment of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), and the Senate Oversight Fund into the constitution, and calls for the establishment of the Ward Development Fund.
The NADCO report further suggests creating the Office of the Leader of the Official Opposition and the Office of Prime Minister to enhance political stability. It also recommends establishing an Independent Political Parties Regulatory Commission to oversee the registration and management of political parties and their funds. Raila, alongside Steven Kalonzo Musyoka, supports further dialogue to include all stakeholders, especially the youth, in addressing these issues.
President Ruto has echoed the call for unity and collaboration, urging individuals to work together towards shaping the country’s future. Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa praised the legislative process, highlighting the role of dialogue in national discourse. He noted that eight other proposed bills are currently undergoing legislative processes, emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue.
