Why Silvanus Osoro fears Ruto, Raila ‘handshake’
Mugirango South lawmaker Silavus Osoro has expressed his concerns on the possibility of a political union between President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga.
The youthful lawmaker, who doubles up as the National Assembly Majority Whip suggested he could lose his lucrative position in parliament if the two leaders were to set aside their political differences and work together, in a term loosely translated to ‘handshake’ in political circles.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) allied lawmaker spoke amid ongoing negotiations between the government and opposition, which have since been dubbed the National Dialogue.
The talks are co-chaired by former vice-president Kalonzo Musyoka representing the opposition and National Assembly Majority Leader, Kiamni Ichung’wah.
“In your discussions, Ichung’wah, please do not agree to any power-sharing deals. Power sharing will put us at risk,” Osoro, a vocal legislator, cautioned.
He further added, “They might demand that even me, Osoro, relinquish my position, and I will be ousted to make room for others.”
He made the remarks on August 20, 2023, at a Sunday service in his home turf attended by among others President William Ruto.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has asked the government to address various issues at the talks, including the soaring cost of living.
To facilitate the talks, the opposition temporarily suspended anti-government demonstrations called by Mr Odinga through his Azimio la Umoja coalition.
Dr Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, have firmly ruled out the possibility of power-sharing with Mr Odinga.
They emphasize their primary focus is on plans to advance the nation’s development.
Mr Odinga too has disputed any intentions of joining the government, stating his main concern is for the government to address the alarming increase in the cost of living.
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