Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga on Sunday, January 8, dispelled rumours of turmoil within the party - signalled by the conspicuous absence of former Mombasa governor Ali Hassan Joho.
Speaking to the press in Mombasa County, Raila noted that Joho had jetted out of the country but affirmed that the former Mombasa governor would return later.
He noted that the politician would resume his duties as deputy party leader, similar to prior to the August 9 polls.
"Joho is out of the country, but he will come back. I have talked to him a couple of times.
"When he comes, he will resume his duties and continue to make his contributions," Raila noted.
The former premier was responding to allegations that he was losing grip of the Coast region- which has been his perceived stronghold in the past elections.
The former governor has been conspicuously absent from the party affairs after the August 9 General Election.
In addition, speculations went strife of Joho allegedly resigning from ODM as deputy party leader - with critics signalling the crumble and cracks of the Azimio la Umoja coalition.
The Azimio coalition had also faced heavy criticism after governors affiliated with the coalition had affirmed to work with President William Ruto.
In a rejoinder, Raila affirmed that he had given his nod of approval for the governors to work with the ruling government.
He also warned the media to desist the Azimio governors from being labelled political defectors.
“I want to warn journalists against writing misleading stories about Azimio governors defecting. Meeting President Ruto or welcoming the Head of State does not mean that they are no longer with us," he stated in Mombasa on Friday, January 6.
"Azimio is alive and going. It’s as bold as a lion. Journalists should not confuse that with defection,” the former prime minister added.
