Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has criticised Kenya Kwanza bipartisan talks team leader, Kimani Ichung'wah, for using letters to communicate with Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as the ruling coalition braces itself for resumption of ceasefire talks with Azimio.
Speaking at a funds drive in Homa Bay County on August 6, Murkomen suggested that the duo should engage in phone calls to expedite the process.
Murkomen emphasised that Kenyans are primarily concerned about the outcome of the talks, which are aimed at bringing peace following a series of anti-government protests.
The use of letters between the two representatives has been causing delays in the negotiation process, especially since Raila has issued a 30-day ultimatum for the talks to be completed. In response to the slow progress, Raila has threatened to return to the streets if the discussions continue to drag on.
"If they want to meet in a restaurant or County Hall, we do not want to know. When they get there, let them talk. Is there a problem in the dialogue?
"If they don't have each other's number I will share the contacts," he expressed.
The former Elgeyo Marakwet Senator urged both sides to approach the talks with sincerity and drop hardline stances. He observed that both teams could find sustainable solutions to all issues raised by the opposition.
Earlier in the week, Ichung'wah stated that the Kenya Kwanza team will not engage Azimio on the cost of living, power sharing and a potential audit of the 2022 General elections.
"This is not the first time we are having a conversation. The way we can make this country is by having a continuous conversation about issues that come up every time," he stated.
"Having these conversations casts aside chaos, misunderstanding and miscommunication."
At the same time, he called on the opposition to avoid threatening to go back to the streets and give the talks a chance.
Kalonzo and Ichung'wah have been communicating via letters posted on social media. Azimio led by Kalonzo was the first to invite the ruling coalition for talks on Monday, August 7 at the Serena Hotel.
Ichung'wah in a statement countered the proposal with his own recommendation suggesting the talks be held on Thursday, August 10.
The National Assembly Majority Leader suggested that the meeting should be held at County Hall in Nairobi or government offices to prevent the wastage of public resources.
