Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has expressed support for bipartisan talks to ease the buildup of political tension in the country.
The CS asked National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka to work closely to ensure the talks were fruitful and promote peace and cohesion in the country.
Murkomen said delays in the resumption of talks were not good for the country.
Speaking Sunday during a fundraiser at St. Arnold Nyalienga Catholic Church in Rangwe, Homa Bay County, the CS said Kenyans do not want to experience another round of protests.
“We want the bipartisan talks to kick off immediately, and the team should ensure the deliberations are fruitful to guarantee peace in the country. They should stop writing letters to each other and focus on the pertinent issues,” Murkomen said.
Ichungwa and Kalonzo are leading the bipartisan talks teams from Kenya, Kwanza and Azimio, respectively.
National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi and Democratic Action Party of Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa are among those on the Azimio side.
The CS was accompanied by Governor Gladys Wanga, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, and his counterpart from Ugenya, David Ochieng.
According to the Murkomen, the political leaders should not continue wasting time, as this is not the first time Kenyan leaders have engaged in talks after a general election.
“Kenyans are not new to dialogue after a general election. We want the teams to meet and start the talks,” he said.
Governor Wanga said they fully support the dialogue between Kenya Kwanza and Azimio to iron out issues bedevilling Kenyans.
“Let the teams discuss the issues with the objective of ensuring a peaceful and prosperous Kenya. The dialogue should be done in good faith to benefit the country,” Wanga said.
Ochieng’ called on the bipartisan leaders to stop taking hardline positions to enable the country to move forward. He welcomed the talks and urged Azimio not to call another round of anti-government protests.
“Bridges should be built without threats and intimidation. Azimio needs to stop another wave of protest if they are sincere with the talks,” Ochieng said.
Murkomen also defended Members of Parliament who have declared that they will work with President William Ruto’s government.
Omondi said he is working with the national government to ensure his constituents reap big rewards through enhanced development.
By Davis Langat
