Raila Explains Absence From Azimio Protests

Raila further assured that he was staying in touch with other leaders as they led the protests in various regions across the country.

Marvin Chege Marvin Chege
Jul 20, 2023 - 18:41 Updated: Jul 21, 2023 - 10:06
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Raila Explains Absence From Azimio Protests
Raila Odinga speaking at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation in Nairobi on July 12, 2023. /THE ODM PARTY

Azimio la Umoja leader, Raila Odinga, on Thursday, July 20 broke his silence regarding his absence from the anti-government protests for the second day in a row.

In a phone interview with NTV, Odinga revealed that he came down with a case of a bad flu but assured supporters that he was recovering well.

"I got a very bad cold which put me down for a while and I got medical attention, but I'm getting better. I shall be fine," he said.

Raila further assured that he was staying in touch with other leaders as they led the protests in various regions across the country.

Raila Odinga addressing supporters at Kenyatta Market on July 11, 2023. /RAILA ODINGA

He noted that the demos were organised to benefit Kenyans, adding that the Azimio co-principals did not need to be present for them.

"Baba is there, and I'm collaborating with my colleagues in these protests. They are not for Baba or Mama (NARC-Kenya leader, Martha Karua) or for Kalonzo (Wiper leader).

"The protests are for all Kenyans. The whole of Azimio is okay and leading the demonstrations in various regions. It is not a must that they are seen on the streets," he argued.

The Opposition chief assured that the Friday, July 21 protests will be a grand finale, noting that the July 20 protests were a dress rehearsal (semi-finale).

Raila however dismissed allegations that former President Uhuru Kenyatta was funding the protests, terming President William Ruto's claims as lies intended to mislead Kenyans emotionally.

The Azimio leader also maintained that he was not looking for a handshake with Ruto as claimed by Kenya Kwanza politicians.

Meanwhile, Azimio announced plans for their third and final day of protests, urging supporters to converge at Jevanjee Gardens (CBD) Imara Daima Grounds (Embakasi South) and Kibra Kamukunji Grounds (Kibra Constituency).

The Friday protests are scheduled to begin at 10 am.

A police car at Emali during demonstrations on July 9, 2018. /MUSYI FM.MA3ROUTE

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