Raila defends call for national dialogue amid political tension

The Orange Democratic Movement party leader Raila Odinga has defended the call for a national conclave to chart a new path through collective civic engagement. Raila spoke at the funeral service of the late Alison Sigei in Bomet on Saturday, July 12, 2025. Raila said the national dialogue will be essential in charting a new, all-inclusive course for the country. He said that about 40 people should be selected from the 47 counties to attend the national conference, adding that 50% must be youth. Raila said that after nearly 15 years, it was time for the country to review the 2010 Constitution to fix the gaps that have been identified. The former Prime Minister accused a section of politicians led by Rigathi Gachagua of seeking to entrench tribalism in the country. He said the national dialogue should start by August. Raila said that Kenya cannot go for 2027 general election amid anger, division and bitterness.