On Friday, March 7, President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga signed a political cooperation deal. This agreement brings together Kenya’s two biggest political parties to work toward common goals.

Here are the 10 key points of the deal:

1. Implementing the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) Report

The government must take action on the NADCO report. For too long, Kenyans have debated critical issues like the high cost of living, youth unemployment, and the two-thirds gender rule. Now, it’s time to implement solutions.

2. Promoting Inclusivity in Public Life

Kenya belongs to everyone, no matter their ethnicity, religion, age, or region. All citizens deserve equal access to government resources and public appointments.

Although the Constitution protects minority and marginalized groups, the government has not fully enforced these rights. That must change.

3. Strengthening Devolution

Devolution must be fully protected. The government needs to allocate more funds to counties, ensure timely disbursement, and prevent any attempts to take back devolved functions.

4. Creating Jobs and Economic Opportunities for Youth

Kenya must invest in high-potential industries like mining, agriculture, ICT, and the blue economy. By launching nationwide economic programs, the government can create more jobs for young people. At the same time, youth must have a voice in political decision-making.

5. Enforcing Leadership and Integrity

Kenyans are frustrated by public officials who display wealth arrogantly and act with impunity. Public servants must uphold dignity and respect the people they serve.

The government must also establish clear laws to prevent conflicts of interest among officials.

6. Protecting the Right to Peaceful Protests

Kenya has a long history of suppressing peaceful protests. This must stop. Officers who violate this right must be held accountable, and victims must receive compensation.

Those charged for protesting should be granted amnesty. The police must also adopt better methods to handle demonstrations.

7. Auditing and Managing National Debt

Kenya must review past borrowing and ensure future loans are used wisely. Every region should benefit from government borrowing since all citizens share the burden of repaying the debt.

8. Winning the Fight Against Corruption

It’s time to move beyond words and take real action against corruption. The government must strengthen oversight institutions like the Auditor General, the Controller of Budget, and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.

9. Reducing Waste and Improving Government Efficiency

Both national and county governments must embrace responsible spending. Every shilling must be justified, and wasteful expenditures must end.

10. Upholding the Rule of Law and Democracy

Government officials must respect court orders and follow legal procedures if they wish to challenge them.

Abductions, extrajudicial killings, and suppression of free speech must end. Strong political parties are essential for democracy, so their independence must be protected.

To keep this cooperation effective, Ruto and Odinga will hold regular discussions on key national issues and share ideas on good governance.

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