The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance has reiterated that it will not engage in discussions of power-sharing with the Kenya Kwanza administration during the ongoing bi-partisan talks between the two parties that commenced on Wednesday.
In a statement, Azimio noted that its focus during the talks is centred on addressing the plight of Kenyans reeling from the harsh economic environment and not the interests of politicians affiliated with the outfit.
“We shall respect and uphold the dignity of all participants in the dialogue. We shall not negotiate for any form of power-sharing with the Kenya Kwanza Alliance or put any personal interest ahead of the interest of the people,” said Azimio.
While thanking retired Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo for facilitating the talks, Azimio added that it will participate in the talks in good faith while seeking a just outcome for Kenyans.
“We shall seek solutions that address the rights and interests of all Kenyans, now and in future and we shall uphold and promote integrity, transparency and accountability throughout the dialogue process,” said Azimio.
“We shall ensure respect for the Constitution and the rule of law and regularly and honestly update the people of Kenya on the developments throughout this process.”
Talks between Azimio and Kenya Kwanza were confirmed on Monday after the two teams settled on a date, time and venue for the talks which are expected to unlock the stalemate that has seen the opposition spearhead mass protests across the country.
The two political sides had their first sitting at the Bomas of Kenya on Wednesday with the team leaders, Kalonzo Musyoka (Azimio) and Kimani Ichung’wa (Kenya Kwanza) leading the talks.
Among issues that will set the mood for the talks include the period the deliberations will take with Azimio having already pronounced itself that should the talks not amount to anything by the end of August, protests will resume in September.