Raila Odinga has clarified that his cooperation with President Ruto does not signify a shift in his political stance regarding tax policies. He remains dedicated to addressing national issues and advocates for reforms to lessen the burdens on citizens. Despite recent criticisms following a cooperation agreement with the UDA, Odinga reassures supporters that he is committed to their welfare as the 2027 elections approach.
Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has refuted allegations that he has forsaken his supporters following his recent collaboration with President William Ruto. He emphasized that his political stance concerning Ruto’s taxation policies remains consistent, despite forming an alliance with the ruling administration. Speaking at a burial ceremony in Kiambu County, Odinga addressed the worries of his supporters, who interpret his partnership with the Kenya Kwanza administration as a departure from his commitments.
Odinga remarked, “Now there are a lot of people making noise, saying that I have gone to Ruto and left them. I haven’t left you; I haven’t gone to Ruto. My political stand has not changed.” He clarified that his engagement with the governmnet’s efforts is aimed at resolving critical national concerns, particularly those related to governance, taxation, and the economic challenges facing citizens. He stated, “This cannot happen unless people come together to talk.”
The ODM leader also reassured his followers, particularly after his loyalists joined Ruto’s Cabinet following the June 2025 Gen Z-led anti-tax protests, that he remains committed to advocating for policies that reduce the financial burden on citizens. He asserted, “Elections will come in 2027, and Kenyans will decide on their own. We no longer want Kenyans to continue suffering. The healthcare system has issues—SHA is not working, and it needs to be fixed.”
Raila Odinga criticized recent tax policies, including the Housing Levy, expressing that they require immediate reassessment. He noted, “The taxes Kenyans are paying are too high, and even the housing program is problematic. These issues need to be sorted, and they can’t be addressed if I’m not involved. I have to be in for it to work.”
His comments emerged in the wake of ODM’s signing of a cooperation agreement with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), which had sparked various reactions within the political sphere. Both Odinga and Ruto supported the cooperation pact, framing it as a reliable framework for bipartisan dialogue on essential national matters, including economic reforms and governance. Odinga has insisted that his involvement is strictly issue-based, rejecting any notions that he is aligning himself with the government for personal political gain.
In summary, Raila Odinga has reaffirmed his commitment to his supporters while explaining his recent cooperation with President William Ruto. He maintains a consistent stance on taxation policies and underscores the importance of collaboration to address national issues. By doing so, he aims to tackle economic challenges and ensure his constituents’ voices are heard, all while emphasizing the necessity for reform in taxation and public services in anticipation of the upcoming elections.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
