Former presidential aspirant and gospel singer Reuben Kigame has expressed his opposition to President William Ruto’s call for national dialogue.
In a statement posted on his official X account on July 23, 2024, Kigame argued that the proposed national talks violate the constitution. He also urged President Ruto and the national government to uphold the constitution that they pledged to protect.
“Somebody explain to me in simple language, what is the point of having dialogue? Over what? The government knows what the Constitution says. They swear by it and even swear using holy books! just do the right thing. I say again, just do the right thing,” he wrote.
Somebody explain to me in simple language, what is the point of having dialogue? Over what? The government knows what the constitution says. They swear by it and even swear using holy books! just do the right thing. I say again, just do the right thing.
— Reuben Kigame – Papa RK (@ReubenKigame) July 22, 2024
On July 9, 2024, President William Ruto announced a six-day multi-sectoral dialogue forum aimed at addressing the current crisis facing the country. During a press briefing at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, he stated that the forum would include representatives from political parties, youth groups, civil society, employers, and religious organizations.
“The forum will propose the way forward for the country in the interest of making sure we live within our means; all participants will bear their attendance costs. This is a result of consultations we have held this morning,” he said.
On Friday, July 19, 2024, President William Ruto announced his decision to form a broad-based government following extensive consultations. Speaking during a press briefing at State House Nairobi, Ruto emphasized that the national unity government aims to leverage the country’s vast potential and drive economic transformation.
“I gave the nation my undertaking to reflect at length on these issues that have been brought into sharp focus by the people of Kenya, consult widely on the way forward and craft a broad-based Government that would harness the enormous potential of our country to turbocharge our economic transformation and inclusive growth,” he said.
He further stated that the ongoing crisis has created an opportunity to craft an inclusive government consisting of a citizen coalition made up of Kenyans from all walks of life for national transformation and progress.
