President William Ruto has clarified that there will be no handshake between him and the leader of the opposition Raila Odinga anytime soon.

He said that he is willing to engage with leaders from all political parties, but there is no space for a Handshake.

"Niliwaambia wenzangu wa upinzani kuwa sina shida na mazungumzo, bora wasiseme mambo ya Handshake," Ruto remarked.

It translates to: I told my opposition colleagues I don't mind talks as long as they don't request a handshake.

On Sunday at State House, President Ruto stated that his administration requires a robust and vibrant opposition to check government.


"I want a strong opposition that will hold the government to account." That is why I am against the Handshake," he stated.

The President also stated that he opposed handshakes because they allow the administration to conceal specific figures from the public.

"I lead an administration accountable to Kenyans, and my Cabinet secretaries are also accountable." I want a viable opposition that can hold the government to account. That is why I am against the Handshake," he stated.

The Head of State stated that he believes in a system of administration and opposition because it is the only way to hold an executive accountable.


According to Ruto, holding the state accountable benefits everyone, including citizens, the administration, and the opposition, because everyone becomes a part of the success.

Kenya's Kwanza government has blamed former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga's 'Handshake government' for "ruining the country's economy" by having a voracious thirst for borrowing.