Breaking Down the Ruto-Raila Handshake: What You Need to Know

President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga signed a groundbreaking coalition agreement at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi. The deal marks a significant shift in Kenya's political landscape, bringing together the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

The agreement, formally known as the Kenya Kwanza-ODM Framework Agreement, outlines several key commitments. These include implementing the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, addressing youth unemployment, and ensuring the two-thirds gender rule is achieved. The pact also emphasizes protecting the rule of law, constitutionalism, and devolution.

As part of the deal, ODM has secured significant positions in Parliament's power structure. The Budget and Appropriation Committee will be chaired by Samuel Atandi, while other key committees such as Health and Labour will be led by ODM representatives. This power-sharing arrangement demonstrates the comprehensive nature of the coalition agreement.

The partnership emerged following extensive consultations between both parties, with meetings held at various locations including Mombasa State House. ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has welcomed the partnership, emphasizing its focus on national interest and unity.

Key elements of the agreement include:

• Immediate audit of national debt
• Enhanced measures to combat corruption
• Protection of the right to peaceful assembly
• Compensation for rights victims
• Regular consultations on national issues

This political realignment represents a significant shift in Kenya's governance structure, with both parties committing to share political infrastructure and deploy experts for governance consultations. The move has been welcomed by supporters from both political camps, signaling a new era of collaborative politics in Kenya.