President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga have outlined a comprehensive working agreement following a joint Parliamentary Group (PG) meeting between the ruling Kenya Kwanza Coalition and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
In a communiqué issued after the meeting held on Monday, August 18, at the KCB Leadership Institute in Karen, both sides agreed on six resolutions to guide cooperation in Parliament and the implementation of their shared agenda.
"Reaffirming our shared commitment to the unity of national purpose, peace and stability of the Republic of Kenya, we resolve to put aside partisan divisions and work together to advance the national interest above partisan political expediency.
"In this regard, the bipartisan approach shall guide working relations in Parliament and even in the County Assemblies. This joint working relationship is not limited to parties represented here today, but is open to all interested parties, in the broader interest of our country. We commit to fostering reconciliation, dialogue and inclusion among all Kenyans to strengthen national cohesion," the statement read.
The MPs also pledged to prioritize the implementation of the 10-point agenda, describing it as the cornerstone of their joint legislative and development programme.
"We affirm our collective responsibility to ensure the full and timely implementation of the agreed 10-point Agendas; the cornerstone of our joint legislative and development programme. We shall prioritize legislation, oversight and resource allocation that facilitates delivery of key pillars, including economic growth, social justice, job creation, healthcare, education, infrastructure development, agriculture, good governance and empowerment of youth and women.
"We resolve to show commitment and work together in our joint resolve to fighting corruption to protect the integrity of our institutions and their leaderships. This fight will be waged in all arms of the Government. Further, high priority shall be given to mechanisms necessary to ensure appropriate compensation to all valid cases of violence as shall be recommended by the Coordinating committee appointed by the President," the statement continued.
Additionally, the parliamentary cooperation for national interest was one of the resolutions the MPs agreed to prioritize.
"Recognizing the mandate of Parliament as the people's institution, we pledge to collaborate on matters of concern to the nation guided by the principles of transparency, accountability and service to the people,” the statement added.
The MPs further highlighted their support for national dialogue and inclusivity, inspired by the leadership of President William Ruto and Raila Odinga.
"Inspired by the patriotic spirit and nationalism of His Excellency President William Ruto and Right Hon. Raila Odinga, the Kenya Kwanza and ODM parliamentary teams, putting Kenya first, will give all necessary support needed to keep the country united on a progressive path, through consultations.
"The Joint PG resolves to actively participate in constructive deliberations to ensure national unity, socio-economic development, rule of law, peace and security for all Kenyans," the statement further read.
Further, the resolutions also commit the two parties to prioritizing legislative and policy matters concerning the 10-point agenda.
"The Joint Parliamentary Group, working through the National Assembly and the Senate, will prioritize policy, legislative and administrative proposals that will be made by the Committee Overseeing Implementation of the NADCO Report and the 10-Point Agenda. Issues contained in the 10-point agenda transcend UDA and ODM, and are matters that central to the existence and progress of Kenya," the statement read.
Lastly, the MPs agreed to organize a retreat later this year to enhance cohesion and operational efficiency.
"A retreat for the joint Parliamentary Group shall be organized later in the year, as part of the conscious steps to build harmony and streamline working operations to achieve all the objectives as underscored in the Memorandum of Understanding," the statement concluded.
The PG meeting, co-chaired by Ruto and Raila, was held at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen.
The meeting was attended by a broad representation of legislators, but conspicuously absent were ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna alongside Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
Among those present were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, and UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar.
Other leaders in attendance included Nominated MP Sabina Chege, Mandera Senator Ali Roba, Tigania East MP Mpuri Aburi, Migori Senator Eddy Oketh, Homa Bay Senator Otieno Kajwang’, and South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro.
