Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has refuted claims that he is waiting for President Uhuru Kenyatta’s support in the impending 2022 general elections.
The former prime minister stated that he has never relied on endorsements to run for a political office.
“I’m not asking for a pat on the back from anyone.” In my life, I don’t rely on endorsements. In an interview with Radio Citizen on Thursday, he stated, “My entire political career has been about service to the people, not endorsements.”
Raila said he will not discuss his plans for 2022 until after the BBI, but that if he runs, he “will be seeking for votes, not endorsements.”
“If I decide to run for President, I would seek votes from President Uhuru and others.” I won’t be soliciting endorsements.”
The former Prime Minister expressed optimism that the country might yet organize a vote to follow the BBI proposals.
He added that the plebiscite’s timing should not be a concern because the activity does not necessitate the same resources as a general election.
“There is still time for a referendum,” says the author. Elections are coming up in a year. Even if it’s December, it’s possible… Nothing is going to stop us,” the ODM leader stated.
Raila expressed confidence in the courts’ ability to provide justice and give Kenyans a voice in the proposed constitutional revisions.
“Reggae will return if justice is done. I am prepared for the court’s decision. We will accept the decision even though we don’t agree with it if the courts rule against us,” he added.
The BBI wants to create a new executive branch with a prime minister and two deputy prime ministers, as well as a 35 percent income share for counties.
Most of the ideas in the BBI paper, according to Raila, require a public vote to accept or reject them.