STAR ILLUSTRATION
The recent Memorandum of Understanding between President William Ruto and Raila Odinga marks a turning point in Kenya’s political landscape.
More than a political handshake, it is a strategic response to long-standing governance, economic and social challenges.
At its core, the MoU recognises an urgent truth: Kenya’s governance structure needs fundamental reforms to enhance services, economic inclusivity and national unity.
The MoU comes at a time of heightened political tensions and economic hardships. The post-2022 election period has been marked by public discontent over the rising cost of living, concerns about excessive government borrowing and accusations of state capture.
The opposition, led by Raila, has consistently pushed for electoral and governance reforms, while Ruto faces mounting pressure to deliver on his campaign promises.
This agreement, therefore, represents a high-stakes attempt at political stabilisation and reform ahead of the 2027 elections through mutual cooperation.
At the heart of the agreement are key reform areas that include institutional restructuring, economic transformation and governance realignment.
The MoU prioritises the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee report, strengthening devolution, improving youth livelihoods, upholding leadership and integrity, protecting the right to peaceful assembly, addressing national debt, fighting corruption, curbing public resource wastage and reinforcing the rule of law.
Additionally, it underscores the need for sustainable employment opportunities, access to capital and an enabling environment for youth-led enterprises.
Ruto and Raila acknowledge that the current governance model is failing ordinary citizens, making these reforms crucial as the country approaches the next general election.
Beyond governance, the MoU will significantly influence the 2027 general election. For Ruto, this agreement offers an opportunity to stabilise his administration by addressing economic hardships, broadening his political appeal and demonstrating effective leadership.
If he delivers on these reforms, his chances of re-election improve. However, failure to implement key provisions could fuel voter dissatisfaction and strengthen opposition forces.
For Raila, the MoU provides a platform to advance his reform agenda. If it results in meaningful change, he reinforces his legacy as a reformist leader. Conversely, if perceived as a mere political manoeuvre without tangible results, it could diminish his influence and open the field for new challengers.
The MoU is also reshaping coalition politics in Kenya, and the coming months will determine whether this cooperation is transformative or a temporary truce.
Despite its promise, the MoU faces scepticism. Critics argue that previous political agreements – such as the 2008 Grand Coalition Government and the 2018 Handshake – failed to deliver meaningful reforms.
The 2008 coalition stabilised the country but led to bloated government structures and power struggles. The 2018 Handshake sought unity but sidelined key stakeholders and did not resolve economic challenges.
Some political observers view the MoU as an elite-driven power arrangement rather than a genuine effort to address governance failures.
Without clear implementation frameworks and independent oversight, the MoU risks being perceived as another power-sharing deal rather than a vehicle for change.
For the MoU to be effective, clear steps must be taken. A well-defined implementation framework with timelines, deliverables and independent oversight is necessary to ensure accountability.
Public participation should be prioritised through town hall meetings, real-time citizen feedback mechanisms and transparent policymaking.
Economic policies must shift focus from macroeconomic indicators to the realities faced by everyday citizens—job creation, affordable food prices and accessible capital for small businesses.
Appointing officials based on competence and integrity rather than political loyalty is crucial. Additionally, stringent anti-corruption measures must be enforced to ensure public funds are directed toward development rather than patronage networks.
Kenya stands at a defining moment. Citizens demand leaders who not only articulate their struggles but take decisive action to improve livelihoods.
The MoU is a historic commitment to addressing governance shortcomings, but its success depends on political will. Reforms must prioritise competence, efficiency and inclusivity.
They must eliminate corruption and embrace participatory governance. If Ruto and Raila fail to take this bold step, their cooperation with the masses will erode—potentially paving the way for a new generation of leaders who will truly represent the people.
The writer Political strategist and expert in leadership and governance.
