The 2018 handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga aimed to ease political tensions and stabilize the economy, but recent clashes between Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto have cast doubt on its long-term impact. The two political figures have exchanged harsh accusations, with Odinga labeling Ruto the "high priest of graft" and Ruto dismissing Odinga as the "lord of poverty." Their public disputes have intensified during key events like the Sixth Devolution Conference, where Odinga criticized Ruto's interference in investigations and Ruto responded with a metaphor about tribal bias.
While the handshake initially fostered a national focus on anti-corruption, ongoing rivalry risks diverting attention from this priority. Odinga advocates for a regional tier in devolution, a proposal Ruto opposes. Analysts note that public support for anti-graft efforts has grown, but the conflict between opposition and ruling party figures could weaken progress. President Kenyatta has repeatedly urged unity, warning against politicizing corruption investigations as tribal conflicts.
Cotu Secretary-General Francis Atwoli emphasized that anti-corruption measures must apply across all communities, stating that lack of involvement in key positions explains why some groups appear untouchable. Despite the tensions, the handshake remains a symbol of potential reconciliation, though its success hinges on curbing factional disputes that threaten national cohesion.
