President William Ruto on Friday, April 28, called on the opposition to seek redress of their issues through dialogue ahead of the resumption of Azimio protests on Tuesday, May 2.
Speaking during the launch of the Grain Bulk Handlers Limited in Embakasi, the Head of State indicated that he was willing to work with the opposition for the prosperity of the country.
He noted that there were adequate avenues in the constitution that could be used in addressing the issues raised by Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, rather than mass protests.
Ruto underlined that the protests only disrupted businesses and the livelihoods of many Kenyans.
"I want to encourage our friends in the opposition to work with us in building the country. For any of the issues they have to raise, the constitution robustly provides for us to engage in a constructive manner without the necessity of violent confrontations and unnecessary disruptions of business.
"If you organise demonstrations and the businesses of Kenyans go up in flames, you have destroyed their lives. We should know what our actions amount to," he urged.
Ruto made the statements ahead of Raila's home welcoming rally in Kibra on April 28 afternoon.
On his part, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua called out the opposition for not being genuine in their demands and demonstrations.
He cited the high cost of living that the Ruto administration was adequately addressing. Gachagua gave the example of the reduction of the price of maize flour.
"They said that they were protesting because of the price of unga. Now let them look for another reason to go to the streets. That reason does not exist. Those who know them, know that it was just an excuse.
"The country is safe and secure. They are welcome to make noise and go home. Let them not destroy public and private property," he stated.
Azimio announced the resumption of protests after bipartisan talks collapsed after the two factions could not agree on a number of issues including the membership of the committee.
Those whose nominations were being contested were Pokot South MP David Pkosing and his Eldas counterpart Adan Keynan.
