State House Announcement on BBI After Raila's Return

From left: Deputy President William Ruto, President Uhuru Kenyatta and Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga at the Bomas of Kenya on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, during the launch of the Building Bridges Initiative
From left: Deputy President William Ruto, President Uhuru Kenyatta and Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga at the Bomas of Kenya on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, during the launch of the Building Bridges Initiative
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Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga swung back into action on Monday, July 13, a day after he landed back from Dubai where he underwent surgery to treat a nerve disorder that had affected one of his legs.

Odinga is expected to join President Uhuru Kenyatta in receiving the much-anticipated Building Bridges Initiative Report. State House, through Spokesperson Kanze Dena, detailed the next course of action upon Odinga's return.

Kanze stated that State House will come up with the dates for the presentation of the report by the committee, with reports indicating that the event will be virtual and broadcast live.

Raila Odinga and BBI taskforce head Yusuf Haji enjoy a hearty moment during the BBI Garissa rally on February 23, 2020.
Raila Odinga and BBI taskforce head Yusuf Haji enjoy a hearty moment during the BBI Garissa rally on February 23, 2020.
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"Official communication will be sent through our official portals," Kanze stated.

Mama Ida Odinga stated the former premier was recovering well aft his quiet return which ODM leaders revealed was planned to avoid gatherings.

"He is okay and doing well. I can see him walking outside in the garden. We thank everyone for their prayers. The family will issue a statement at the right time," Ida stated while speaking with The Standard.

She added that Odinga's recovery would have been interrupted by his followers and politicians if he had been treated in Kenya. The family was keen to avoid frequent hospital visits, especially during the Coronavirus crisis.

Odinga was expected to shelve public appearances for two weeks after arriving in Kenya and to also self-quarantine at home in line with Covid-19 regulations.

However, sources alleged that he met with ODM leaders and a section of government officials with ODM Chairman John Mbadi adding that he will operate from his Karen house for two weeks rather than his Capitol Hill Offices. 

"He is strong. You don't want to put Raila in a situation where he goes back to the office and it is going to be crowded," Mbadi stated while addressing the media on Monday, July 13.

On Sunday, July 12, politicians allied to Deputy President William Ruto called for the immediate release of the BBI report. Soy MP Caleb Kositany alleged that Kenyatta and Odinga were intentionally delaying its presentation. 

"They should release the BBI report rather than trying to play politics with it, we know they are still looking for those who will oppose it, let them bring it, no one will oppose it. The task force has completed its work, where is this report? Why are they taking long before releasing it?"  Kositany lamented. 

Raila Odinga breaks into dance during the BBI rally in Kitui on February 1, 2020.
Raila Odinga breaks into dance during the BBI rally in Kitui on February 1, 2020.
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