ODM Rejects IMF, World Bank Role in Bipartisan Talks With Kenya Kwanza

ODM Party leader Raila Odinga with former Governor Hassan Joho, Politician Suleiman Shabal, MP Junet Mohamed and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir on Friday, April 15, 2022.
ODM Party leader Raila Odinga with former Governor Hassan Joho, Politician Suleiman Shabal, MP Junet Mohamed and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir on Friday, April 15, 2022.
Photo
Raila Odinga

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has opposed a decision by the Kenya Kwanza team to include the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) as experts in the talks on issues touching on the cost of living and economy.

In a statement on Monday, the political party argued that the two bodies have in the past offered advice that contributed to the country's problems.

"We express profound concern regarding the participation of institutions such as the World Bank and IMF for expert input," read part of the statement.

International Monetary Fund office.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) offices in Washington, US.
Photo
IMF

The two institutions were set to offer expert opinions on how to deal with the high cost of living in the country. 

ODM has emphasised that it would stand firm and not accept any deal that does not address the cost of living.

In talks scheduled for Tuesday, the opposition wants to address the high cost of living before agreeing on other agendas.

The party believes that the success of the talks is pegged on addressing matters affecting Kenyans. 

"It is with a sense of disquiet that we have noted recent attempts by the opposing side to downplay the critical importance of addressing the cost of living. We must emphasize that the high cost of living remains our top priority and is non-negotiable for us," read the statement in parts.

ODM further chided the government for increasing prices of basic commodities like fuel which has increased the burden on citizens.

Also, ODM raised issue with the introduction of more taxes.

The talks led by Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung'wah and Azimio co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka have been going on since August.

In the last meeting, the two parties agreed to create the office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the opposition leader.

Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, addresses the press while surrounded by board members of state corporations at the Induction of Board Members of State Corporations in Naivasha on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.
Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, addresses the press while surrounded by board members of state corporations at the Induction of Board Members of State Corporations in Naivasha on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.
Photo: Musalia Mudavadi