The proposed bipartisan talks between the government and Azimio leadership should be centered on issues affecting Kenyans, Machakos deputy governor Francis Mwangangi has said.
Mwangangi said the talks should have citizens’ interests and not leaders’ so as to help improve Kenyans’ livelihoods and living standards.
“I take this opportunity during Easter holidays to personally pray for peace in the country. I call on the two political factions in the country that since a door has opened for dialogue between them, their talks should be citizens' centered,” Mwangangi said.
He said the talks should consider public interests.
He addressed the press at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes Machakos parish in Machakos town on Friday.
Mwangangi joined the Catholic faithful in a cross procession to mark Easter from 10 am to 5 pm. He at a point helped in carrying the cross.
He said the talks should create national cohesion, integration and unity among all Kenyans. They should also help move the country forward.
Mwangangi made the remarks a day after Azimio leader Raila Odinga unveiled a seven-member technical committee to lead Azimio in the bipartisan talks with the government.
They include Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua and Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi.
Others are Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, Pokot South MP David PKosiny and Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo.
Raila listed 10 irreducible minimums that he insisted must form part of the deliberations.
He told both leaders and citizens to pray for the country especially this time of Easter holiday.
“To leaders, Kenyans and fellow Christians, go pray and praise God whenever Easter has found you. We also need to pray so that we have rains in our country in order to feed our people,” Mwangangi said.
Mwangangi said leaders should desist from making irresponsible statements that might lead to incitement of their followers.
“I call on leaders to think about our country before making sentiments that can polarize the nation. Avoid making statements which divide the country,” Mwangangi said.
He called on the National Police Service, National Cohesion and Integration Commission, among other relevant government institutions to discharge their constitutional mandates in ensuring that no leaders incite the public by making uncalled-for statements.
