Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party, has received criticism from President William Ruto for his opposition to discussions involving the lawmakers, Judiciary, and Executive branches.

Though he recently held talks with the leadership of other independent institutions, including the judiciary, President Ruto questioned why opposition leaders oppose such talks.

The President stated that increased efforts are being made to combat corruption, which has impeded the nation's progress, through talks between the three branches of government.


"Those who are opposed to talks among the leadership of various institutions are the ones who have been recruited by crooks, saboteurs and cartels. We want to say, shame on them," said the President.

After officially opening the Kiptogot-Kolongolo water supply, President Ruto made a statement at the Mowlem grounds in Endebess, Trans Nzoia County, saying that leaders in service delivery should be sincere and truthful.

"Anyone opposed to leaders meeting to explore ways of solving problems facing Kenyans is not even fit to lead a committee of a cattle dip," he said.

President Ruto asserted that he would not back down from his efforts to change the nation, claiming that some dishonest people who opposed the changes hid behind the legal system.


"I want to tell those who are frustrating efforts to ensure Kenyans get access to universal healthcare besides owning affordable and decent houses through courts that they will not succeed," President Ruto said.

This comes after Mr. Odinga forewarned the Chief Justice Martha Koome-led Judiciary on Tuesday against discussing with President Ruto's Executive.

On Tuesday during the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party recruitment drive in Vihiga County, Mr. Odinga stated that the discussions risk jeopardizing the judiciary, which he maintains should continue operating independently.

"The Judiciary does not need to bargain with President Ruto. The Chief Justice is discussing ways to compromise justice by holding talks with the Executive, even though there isn't a case pending in court. Allow the judges to conduct themselves independently," the opposition leader stated.


The former prime minister further criticized the President for disobeying the judiciary, noting that one may file an appeal if one disagrees with a court decision.