Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has challenged the clergy to summon Raila Odinga and ask him to let the country enjoy peace instead of calling for dialogue.
He said the government in not interested in engaging individuals known for perpetrating criminal activities.
Speaking in Eldoret on Thursday when he flagged off 1000 of 50kg bags donated by Uasin Gishu for families affected by drought, the Deputy President said those calling for dialogue between President Ruto and Raila should focus their efforts on known criminals sponsoring violence against peace-loving Kenyans.
Mr Gachagua said the country had remained peaceful after the last elections until the chaotic demonstrations spearheaded by the opposition leader.
“There was no demonstration on Monday. It was pure thuggery and looting of people’s property. The church leaders are saying we should hold talks for the sake of peace. But we have had peace. Raila is the one sponsoring chaos and violence against the people,” the Deputy President said.
Mr Gachagua said they would not entertain any attempts to force them into a dialogue with Azimio Coalition leaders who he termed as known criminals behind the violence witnessed during the protests last Monday.
“The church leaders are telling us to talk to a criminal, how is that possible? It can’t be that after every electoral cycle we are talking of talks after a streak of violence and destruction of property by a known criminal,” he said.
The Deputy President said the church ought to summon the opposition leader for talks on how to stop causing violence after losing elections.
“The person the clergy should be looking for talks is Raila; they should ask him to stop his destructive politics,” he added.
The Deputy President said their focus will be on improving production in the farms saying farming will be once more lucrative under the Kenya Kwanza administration.
He said farmers will be integrated in the running of agriculture-focused institutions for them to be able to share their experiences.
The Deputy President said the maize will be distributed to families in Laikipia county who are facing severe hunger.
“I’m grateful for the generosity and kindness of the farmers who have displayed a great deal of patriotism to stand with our people who are suffering because of the prolonged drought. It’s a rare gesture we don’t take lightly as it is a sacrifice they have made for fellow Kenyans,” the Deputy President said.
