ODM Makes Demands on Ruto Ahead of National Dialogue The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a key opposition party in Kenya, has outlined a list of demands that it wants fulfilled before it participates in the national dialogue proposed by President William Ruto. In a statement issued on Sunday, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna outlined the following demands: * Truth and Accountability: ODM called for the establishment of an independent truth and reconciliation commission to investigate allegations of human rights violations and electoral malpractices during the 2022 presidential election. * Justice for Electoral Victims: The party demanded justice for individuals injured or killed during the election period. ODM wants accountability for police brutality and compensation for victims. * Electoral Reforms: ODM proposed comprehensive electoral reforms, including an independent electoral commission, electronic voting, and mechanisms to prevent voter suppression. * Cost of Living Crisis: The party urged the government to address the rising cost of living, which is affecting a majority of Kenyans. ODM proposed measures such as increasing minimum wages, subsidizing basic commodities, and controlling fuel prices. * National Consensus: ODM emphasized the need for a genuine national consensus that includes all stakeholders in the dialogue process. The party wants to ensure that the interests of all Kenyans are represented. Sifuna stated that these demands are non-negotiable and must be met before ODM can consider participating in the national dialogue. He added that the party is committed to building consensus and finding solutions to the challenges facing Kenya but will not compromise on the principles of justice, truth, and accountability. President Ruto announced his intention to initiate a national dialogue in his inaugural speech on September 13th, 2022. He called for a bipartisan approach to address issues of national concern, including the economy, governance, and social cohesion. ODM’s demands have been met with mixed reactions from both the ruling party and other opposition groups. Some see the demands as reasonable and necessary to ensure a meaningful and inclusive dialogue, while others view them as an attempt to delay or derail the process. It remains to be seen whether ODM’s demands will be met by the government and whether the party will ultimately participate in the national dialogue. The outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on the future of Kenyan politics and the country’s ability to address its pressing challenges.ODM Lists Demands for President Ruto Ahead of National DialogueODM Lists Demands for President Ruto Ahead of National Dialogue The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has outlined a series of demands that President William Ruto must fulfill before engaging in the planned national dialogue. Following the President’s announcement of a six-day national dialogue, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna stated that Kenyans remain dissatisfied with the government. ODM’s Demands: * Dismissal of Inspector General of Police and Nairobi Police Commander: ODM calls for the immediate dismissal of these officers due to concerns about an atmosphere of fear inhibiting free speech. * Arrest of Police Officers Implicated in Killings: ODM demands the apprehension of all police officers involved in the deaths of innocent protestors during demonstrations last year. * Amnesty and Compensation for Protest Arrestees and Victims: The party urges a nationwide amnesty for those arrested or charged in connection with the protests and compensation for victims of police brutality. ODM’s Readiness and Prioritization: Sifuna emphasized ODM’s willingness to support the country in addressing crucial issues such as unemployment, justice, equality, corruption, and meritocracy in public appointments. The party believes that these discussions should precede structural changes to the government. ODM has never hesitated to engage in difficult conversations in times of national crisis. The party views the current challenges as an opportunity to address them without solely focusing on the rescue of the Kenya Kwanza regime. Nation’s Importance: According to ODM, the nation’s well-being transcends individual leaders. The party believes that this dialogue represents a chance to address the concerns of the disillusioned youth and the wider Kenyan population. ODM vows to engage fearlessly in the national discourse.The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has outlined a set of demands that it wants President William Ruto to address before it participates in the proposed national dialogue. In a statement released on Tuesday, ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna said that the party will not participate in any dialogue that is not based on certain principles. These principles include: * A clear agenda for the dialogue that is focused on addressing the challenges facing the country * A neutral and impartial mediator who will facilitate the dialogue * A commitment from all parties to respect the outcomes of the dialogue Sifuna said that ODM is concerned that the proposed dialogue is being used as a distraction from real issues affecting Kenyans. “We believe that the dialogue should be about finding solutions to the problems facing our country, such as the high cost of living, unemployment, and insecurity,” he said. ODM’s demands are likely to put pressure on President Ruto, who has been keen to initiate a national dialogue as part of his efforts to unite the country. It remains to be seen whether Ruto will be willing to meet ODM’s demands, or whether the dialogue will proceed without the party’s participation.