Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has made it clear that he would decline any government position offered by the current administration, citing concerns that his views may not align with those of President William Ruto.
Speaking on Thursday, Onyonka emphasized his commitment to remaining in the opposition, stating that he was elected to hold the government accountable rather than support policies he deems harmful.
When asked if he would accept a government job, Onyonka responded,
This statement highlights his belief that senators should serve as watchdogs rather than cheerleaders for potentially detrimental policies.
Onyonka’s comments come amid a broader discussion regarding the relationship between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), his party, and the current administration.
Although ODM leader Raila Odinga has established a working arrangement with Ruto, Onyonka insists that he will not compromise his principles. He stated,
The senator also addressed the trend of opposition leaders accepting government positions, criticizing them for seemingly abandoning their oversight responsibilities.
He expressed skepticism about their claims that being in government is beneficial, suggesting that they may not fully understand the implications of their roles.
Onyonka’s position is clear: if opposition leaders can influence the government to adopt better policies, particularly in critical areas like education, he would support such changes.
However, he warned that if the current state of affairs continues, he and others in the opposition will persist in voicing their concerns.
Onyonka’s steadfastness in his role as a critic of the government highlights the ongoing tensions within Kenyan politics, particularly among opposition parties.
His commitment to transparency and accountability resonates with constituents who expect their leaders to prioritize the public good over political expediency.