Seeking resolution, President Ruto initiated a national dialogue, inviting Odinga to discuss issues raised during the protests. Disagreements arose on the venue, with the President favoring Parliament, and Odinga advocating for talks outside the House, alleging 'compromised MPs.'
The National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) was formed, co-chaired by Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah.
After deliberations, NADCO presented its report, which both Ruto and Odinga recommended for adoption.
However, dissent emerged within Azimio, with leaders like Martha Karua opposing some proposals, arguing that the committee failed to address the critical issue of the cost of living.
Impeachment
2023 was also not devoid of impeachments targeting a governor and a deputy governor from different counties.
In a significant political development, Meru County Governor Kawira Mwangaza faced impeachment, following protracted conflicts with the County Assembly.
On December 14, 2023, former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich and co-accused persons were acquitted in the Sh63 billion Arror and Kimwarer dams' scandal.
Trial Magistrate Eunice Nyutu said there was no evidence to warrant Rotich and eight others being placed on their defense.
The Magistrate also said no evidence was tabled to show that there was no procurement done concerning the two dams.
Equally, the court observed there was no evidence to show that the former CS Henry Rotich and his co-accused failed to follow procurement laws in the Arror and Kimwarer Dams.
Rotich, on his part, said he was happy the case that had been going on for years was finally over.
The year concluded with the arrest of former Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala and several others over corruption allegations related to the construction of Utalii College, Kilifi Campus.
According to EACC, the project which had been approved in 2007 was supposed to cost Sh1.95 billion but it was inflated by Ministry Officials to Sh10.4 billion.
The commission further said that a meeting held at the college and attended by Balala and Gwiyo saw the board dismiss designs and plans that had been prepared by the Ministry of Public Works and resolved to engage a private contractor Baseline Consortium at Sh4 billion.
As chaotic and dramatic as the year was, we, The Standard Digital team, wish you a happy and prosperous 2024!