Bipartisan talks team to sign framework next week

National dialogue lead representatives, Kalonzo Musyoka (Azimio) and Kimani Ichungwah (Kenya Kwanza). [Denis Ochieng, Standard]

The National Dialogue Committee is set to sign the framework for talks on Wednesday next week before embarking on public participation.

Addressing the press in Nairobi on Friday, August 25, the committee with members drawn from both Kenya Kwanza and Azimio la Umoja coalitions announced that they had agreed on the date after adopting a framework recommended by their respective technical committees.

"We are happy to announce that both sides have agreed on the issues framed by the technical teams and which have been ratified by this meeting and we are ready for signing next week on Wednesday," Cecily Mbarire, United Democratic Alliance chairperson said.

At the same time, Mbarire also revealed that the two political outfits have agreed on a working timeframe of 16 working days to finalise the process which includes public participation after the signing.

Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka who was present at the meeting also weighed in on the matter terming the progress laudable.

"We will sign the framework next week and we are grateful for both technical teams for acting swiftly and working in unison. Issues that were clustered are now the agenda for the National Dialogue Committee," Kalonzo added.

The announcement comes hours after Senate Speaker Amason Kingi called for a special sitting of Senate on Tuesday, August 29, to among other things approve the establishment of the Committee.

In a gazette notice dated Friday, Kingi notified the legislators to convene at the main Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, from 9:30 am, on the aforesaid date.