Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has threatened to return to street protests in 30 days should the intended talks between the opposition and the government fail.
Speaking in Gem, Siaya County, on Saturday, August 5, during the burial of protesters, the Azimio party leader assured his supporters that he would not relent in pressuring the government to address their concerns.
The opposition warned that it may organise nationwide demonstrations in September 2023 despite President William Ruto's warnings.
"We have given the ruling government up to October 30, to engage us in constructive talks that will restore sanity in the Country," Raila warned, adding that he would give the next course of action after the ultimatum elapses.
Raila gave the government 30 days to lower the cost of living, consult the opposition on the reconstruction of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), and create the official office of the opposition, among other demands.
Azimio settled on Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka to represent it in the talks. National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, DAP Party leader Eugene Wamalwa, Nyamira Senator Okong'o Omogeni and Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi were also selected to join the bipartisan team.
Raila maintained that he instructed Kalonzo Musyoka to pull out of the talks any moment without notice should the Kenya Kwanza team them with contempt. Kalonzo was also instructed to ensure all issues raised by Azimio are addressed and resolutions found.
"But we have given the team, which is being added by Kalonzo Musyoka, the opportunity to speak with those from the other side. This should not be seen as a weakness," Raila stated.
His statement came a few hours after Kenya Kwanza made a u-turn on addressing all grievances tabled by Azimio.
Kimani Ichung'wah, Kenya Kwanza's lead representative in the talks, stated that President William Ruto gave him express authority only to discuss the reconstitution of the IEBC.
Speaking in Murang'a County during Ruto's Mt Kenya tour, Ichung'wah, who also doubles as the Kikuyu MP and National Assembly majority leader, emphasised that he would negotiate a power-sharing formula with the opposition nor their inclusion into government. He also trolled Raila's team for demanding the government lowers the cost of living.
"If they want to reduce the cost of living, let them go to the farm, and we can supply them with fertiliser," Ichung'wah criticised the opposition.
Ruto also dismissed Raila's threats and maintained that he would not allow protests to recur.
"I want to assure you, that no business will be destroyed, and there will be no protests in this country. We must respect democracy and our Constitution," Ruto assured.
"The only remaining job I have is to send Raila back to Bondo and he will get there without knowing it," he added.
Azimio and Kenya Kwanza agreed to commence the talks on Monday, August 7.
