Kivutha Kibwana to Join Raila's Camp

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (left) and Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (left) and Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana
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Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana is planning to join former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's camp ahead of 2022 general elections.

Kibwana announced the development after lengthy talks he held with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leaders of the South Eastern branch on Wednesday, April 14.

During the meeting, Kibwana praised Raila as a pro-development leader adding that their goals and thinking processes were alike.

"ODM leader Raila Odinga and I are thinking in sync with the aim of taking Kenya forward. We want real change and create a country that is ready to stand for its people.

Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana and Deputy President William Ruto (Right) in Makueni on October 4, 2020.
Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana and Deputy President William Ruto (Right) in Makueni on October 4, 2020.
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"Working together is not a hard task but I may ask that since I am working with many other people, I should seat down with them and discuss the move," stated Kibwana.

He also demanded that the officials should reach out to Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua and his Kitui counterpart Charity Ngilu.

An ODM official who attended the meeting noted that the party was actively pursuing the leader because of his development record in Makueni.

"The whole country has seen what Kibwana has done in Makueni. Now we are seducing him early enough because we know he has been approached by many others.

"We want him to come and work with us. If he wants to come with his own party or join ODM, it is his choice," she stated.

This comes a day after the former Prime Minister met President Uhuru Kenyatta's brother Muhoho Kenyatta and Baringo Senator Gideon Moi signaling an alliance.

In December 2020, Kibwana had expressed his interest in the presidential seat explaining that he would be honoured to serve the people.

"I wish to serve as your President come 2022. I am seeking the support of Kongamano La Mageuzi ( KLM), a pro-change movement. Kindly endorse my candidature.

"I have listened to the voice of Wanjiku asking me to run for the presidency in the coming election. I am available, ready and willing to be Wanjiku's President. Will go all the way to the Ballot Box with Wanjiku in 2022. We must ensure devolution works for our communities," he announced.

Political alliances have been formed with new entrants into the crowded race including former Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development Mukhisa Kituyi struggling to make a mark.

Over the last few days, ODM Deputy Party Leader  Wycliffe Oparanya has held meetings with Deputy President William Ruto. 

Sources claim that Oparanya's u-turn on the priority of the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) and his meeting with the DP had raised concerns at State House. 

Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya (center) with other governors including Makueni's Kivutha Kibwana at a press conference in January 2020.
Kakamega Senator Wycliffe Oparanya (centre) with other governors including Makueni's Kivutha Kibwana at a press conference in January 2020.
Daily Nation