By John Ikani
Kenya’s opposition coalition, Azimio, has proposed that the country’s 13-year-old constitution be reviewed as part of the discussions with the government to end the ongoing protests.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga announced this after a meeting with Azimio’s parliamentary group, stating that the review aims to remove “the remaining traces of an imperial presidency.”
The coalition has been protesting the high cost of living and the appointment of a new electoral commission without consultations, among other issues.
The opposition argues that Kenya’s “winner-take-all culture” perpetuates inequality and undermines democracy.
In February, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faced criticism for likening the government to a company with shares, where some people have large stakes while others have none.
He later clarified that he was referring to government appointments and not state resources, which he said should be distributed fairly.
Since 20 March, Mr Odinga has been leading bi-weekly protests, calling for an honest conversation about electoral justice.
President William Ruto had asked Mr Odinga to halt the protests and participate in parliamentary dialogue on the formation of a new electoral commission, to which Mr Odinga has agreed.
However, he also demanded an external dialogue similar to the 2008 National Accord, led by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan after the disputed elections of 2007.
The accord resulted in a coalition government with President Mwai Kibaki and Mr Odinga as Prime Minister.
Despite accusations of trying to sneak back into government, Mr Odinga maintains that he wants an honest conversation about electoral justice, with solutions for fair elections.
The government is yet to offer its counter-proposal for the talks, but President Ruto has made it clear that his election will not be a topic for discussion.
