Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has shared new details about why he chose to make peace with President William Ruto during a very tense political season last year.
Speaking during the ODM Parliamentary Group meeting on Monday, September 22, Raila explained that the decision was not easy but was necessary for the safety of the country.
He said the political situation at that time had created fear and uncertainty, which was beginning to affect ordinary citizens and the nation’s economy.
According to Raila, the rising tension between his camp and the Kenya Kwanza government risked pushing the country into chaos if no action was taken.
He revealed that his main concern was the stability of Kenya, and not personal or political gain as some people had suggested.
Raila emphasized that the talks with President Ruto were driven by the urgent need to stop violence and to prevent divisions that could tear the country apart.
He said he chose dialogue over confrontation because he believed that leaders have a duty to place the interests of the people above personal ambitions.
The ODM leader told the MPs that peace cannot be taken for granted, especially in a country that has witnessed political unrest in the past.
He explained that history had taught him that once a nation slips into conflict, it takes a long time to rebuild trust and unity among its people.
Raila made it clear that his agreement with Ruto did not mean he had abandoned his role as opposition leader.
Instead, he stated that the consensus was aimed at finding solutions to issues that directly affect Kenyans, such as the high cost of living and unemployment.
He reminded the meeting that dialogue is a tool of democracy and does not mean surrendering one’s beliefs or agenda.
Raila also dismissed claims that the truce was a sign of weakness, saying it was an act of responsibility and statesmanship.
He told ODM members that leadership is about making bold decisions even when they may be misunderstood.
The ODM leader further assured his supporters that he still remains committed to strengthening democracy and defending the rights of Kenyans.
He concluded by saying that Kenya’s peace and unity will always come first, and that his truce with Ruto was a step in that direction.
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