Raila Cancels Migori Visit

Raila in Kamkunji Grounds
ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga at Keroka in Kisii county during the Azimio la Umoja rally on Friday, February 17, 2023.
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Raila Odinga

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has postponed his planned Migori visit, which was slated to be held this Saturday, due to a reported cholera outbreak in the county.

The opposition leader was set to tour the region and engage with political leaders, as well as address the residents in rallies. 

Raila had also intended to light a candle in the area in remembrance of the people who lost their lives during the mass anti-government protests.

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) communications director Philip Etale confirmed to Kenyans.co.ke that the meeting would be organised at a later date.

The opposition side exercised caution after eight county residents tested positive for cholera and were admitted to Migori Referral Hospital. 

Migori County Health Executive Julius Nyerere advised the residents to stay on high alert to avoid contracting the disease.

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Raila addressing part of the demonstrators on Monday, March 20, 2023.
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RAILA ODINGA

Due to the cholera outbreak, there were concerns that holding large gatherings during Raila Odinga's visit could result in an increase in the number of positive cases. 

During the protests staged in Migori, three people tragically lost their lives, while thirteen others sustained wounds. According to Azimio, nationwide casualties exceeded 50, though the accuracy of this data is yet to be verified by the police.

In July, the opposition launched a Citizen Emergency Fund last to support the families of the deceased. 

Raila and former president Uhuru Kenyatta each contributed Ksh1 million, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka donated Ksh500,000, while former Defense CS Eugene Wamalwa contributed Ksh200,000.

The opposition and government are expected to hold talks in an effort to resolve the political impasse in the country. However, an interesting point of contention has arisen as both sides have not yet reached an agreement on the topics to be discussed. 

The cost of living issue has become a significant talking point in this regard.

Ruto, from one camp, insists that the cost of living matter has already been addressed in his manifesto and, therefore, does not need to be included in the talks. 

However, the Azimio side has disputed this and maintained that the issue must be a part of the discussions.

A date has been set for the negotiations with Azimio scheduling the talks for August 7. 

Each camp will be represented by five members chosen by their respective parties.

The Kenya Kwanza team includes National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah, Embu Governor, Cecily Mbarire, East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP, Hassan Omar, Bungoma Woman Representative, Catherine Wambilianga, and Senate Majority Leader, Aaron Cheruiyot.

On the other hand, the Azimio team comprises Kalonzo, National Assembly Minority Leader, Opiyo Wandayi, former Defense Cabinet Secretary, Eugene Wamalwa, Nyamira Senator, Okong'o Omogeni, and Malindi MP, Amina Mnyazi.

President William Ruto in Machakos County on Thursday August 3, 2023
President William Ruto in Machakos County on Thursday, August 3, 2023
PCS