Azimio leader Raila Odinga on Sunday morning issued a list of demands to the government that he believes must be met before the national dialogue takes place.
In his statement in which he remarked was meant to clear the air on his current political stand, Raila demanded that the government ensure justice is served to victims of police brutality and their families.
Raila further demanded the dismissal of all protest-related cases and the release of all Kenyans abducted while staging demonstrations or voicing their political opinions.
He further called for the government to resolve outstanding healthcare (healthcare workers' welfare) and education (JSS teachers) grievances before he can get back to the negotiating table.
Additionally, Raila called for the reverting of the public healthcare insurance back to the now-defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and for the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) to be scrapped.
Further, the Azimio leader called for the prosecution of all security sector perpetrators who played any sort of role in the brutalization of Kenyans during the protests.
“Once these issues are resolved, we can focus on a National Conversation conducted transparently in a neutral venue,” he added.
On the matter of the parties to be involved in the talks, Odinga proposed selection of representatives of several professional bodies to promote inclusivity.
"It is my proposal that representatives for this convention should come from various sectors including youth, government, religious leaders, health care professionals, lawyers, and teachers. We must come together to discuss national and constitutional critical issues," he added.
According to the Azimio honcho, the key critical issues that should be discussed in the dialogue include; good governance, the skyrocketing cost of living, eradicating tribalism, fighting corruption and debt and fiscal management.
Raila further maintained his support for the dialogue despite the heat that has come from his allies in the Azimio camp, discrediting his reported dalliance with President William Ruto.
"To the young people of Kenya, you all must know that I am deeply moved by your dedication to the cause; and I believe a structured dialogue will bring the reforms you are fighting for and safeguard Kenya for your future," stated the opposition leader.
