The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has launched a scathing critique against the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, attributing the current high costs of living to their influence.
In a Monday, October 30 press statement seen by The Kenya Times the party conveyed its deep reservations regarding the involvement of these institutions in the ongoing bipartisan talks aimed at addressing the challenges of the cost of living.
“We express profound concern regarding the participation of institutions such as the World Bank and IMF for expert input,” the statement reads in part.
Furthermore, this critical stance surfaces ahead of the National Dialogue Committee’s (NADCO) forum scheduled for Tuesday, October 31, 2023.
The forum aims to deliberate on the cost-of-living challenges faced by Kenyans, as tabled by the opposing Azimio faction.
ODM Blasts World Bank & IMF
While welcoming NADCO’s forum to discuss the challenges of the cost of living, ODM emphasized its concern about the participation of the World Bank and IMF.
Moreover, the party insists that these institutions’ past counsel have previously contributed to the predicaments facing the nation and calls for a steadfast approach in the negotiations.
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The party added, “As a committed member of Azimio, we urge our delegation to stand firm and not accept any deal that does not satisfactorily address the critical problem of the cost of living.”
Furthermore, the party’s official statement outlined its unwavering dedication to the dialogue facilitated by NADCO.
“We firmly believe that the success of these talks is contingent upon their ability to resonate with the collective hopes and address the concerns expressed by the people of Kenya regarding governance and economic matters,” added the statement.
The Orange Democratic Movement went on to emphasize the key issues proposed by the Azimio delegation for discussion.
Notably, the issues include taming the high cost of living, ensuring electoral justice, restructuring and reconstitution of IEBC, and Upholding fidelity to multiparty democracy, among others
ODM’s Stance on the Cost of Living
Furthermore, the statement expressed disquiet over attempts by the opposing side to downplay the significance of addressing the cost of living.
It asserted that the high cost of living is non-negotiable and remains a top priority.
The party further voices deep concern that while the dialogue is ongoing, the current regime continues to implement measures that worsen the cost of living.
They mentioned fuel price hikes and new, punitive taxes and levies, which ODM argues is not indicative of a genuine commitment to addressing people’s concerns.
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Notably, the party went on to assert that it is essential that NADCO operates under the understanding that nothing is agreed upon until everything is agreed upon.
“The success of these discussions must encompass the comprehensive and genuine interests of the people of Kenya,” the statement read further.
ODM’s commitment to constructive dialogue and the pursuit of solutions that genuinely benefit the Kenyan people remains steadfast, with anticipation of productive discussions ahead.
The party trusts that these productive negotiations will lead to positive change for the betterment of Kenya.
