Raila: Azimio governors can meet with Ruto but I don’t recognize him as president

Azimio La Umoja leader Raila Odinga says governors in the coalition are free to meet with President William Ruto.

This is in the backdrop of last week’s meeting between the Head of State and nine MPs affiliated with the coalition at State House, Nairobi, which sparked debate.

The opposition leader himself labelled them traitors and called for their resignation. In recent days however, Odinga has been criticised for not talking hard on governors who associate themselves with the president.

In a Monday night interview with Ramogi TV, Odinga said he is cognisant of the fact that governors are the links between the national and county governments.

He said county bosses in his coalition can meet with Ruto although he does not recognise him as president.

“We had a sit down with our governors and because they are elected to represent the people, we recognise the existence of a two-tire government. Governors can meet whoever is sitting as President,” Odinga clarified.

“He is working as president because there is no vacuum, but I do not recognise him."

Odinga however noted that governors are not required to make visits the president’s for development to take place.

“Governors are okay to meet the person sitting in the position of the President even though I don’t recognize the presidency of Ruto. You do not have to go to the President to have developments,” he said.

On the nine MPs who met President Ruto at State House, the Azimio chief said, “For any budgetary discussions, we have our parliament to help our leaders, they should not hide in the name of seeking development for his constituency from the president.”

The nine are Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, MPs Felix Odiwuor (Langata), Mark Nyamita (Uriri), Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Paul Abuor (Rongo) and Walter Owino (Awendo).