'Raila has run a good race, now give him the Gold medal': Mama Ida tells Kenyans

Azimio la Umoja One Kenya presidential candidate Raila Odinga's wife, Mama Ida Odinga, has urged Kenyans to turn up at the ballot in large numbers on Tuesday to cast their votes for the former premier.

Speaking at the Kasarani stadium when Azimio made its final submission to voters ahead of the polls next week, Mama Ida underscored that Odinga had done his utmost to campaign and drum up support for his bid, highlighting that the most important part of the election process now lay in the hands of his supporters.

"Today is the last day, amemaliza na amerudi hapa siku ya leo and I can tell you this…he has run a good race and he has finished the race," she said.

According to Mama Ida, Odinga's efforts should be rewarded with the highest possible position at State House, that of the President, which she likened to a Gold medal in a race.

"Kile kinachobaki ni nyinyi kumpatia Gold medal. Mtampatia Gold medal?" she posed to the gathered crowd that cheered in agreement.

On his part, Odinga expressed confidence that he and running mate Martha Karua would succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto at the presidency.

“We’re on the verge of a great victory. I, Raila Amollo Odinga, have seen Canaan; the land of milk and honey, the land of no woman cry.  I have seen the promised land, the land of the ‘Redemption Song’.  We know the battle is hardest when victory is nearest. Get ready my dear Kenyans, and keep the spirit of Aluta Continua,” he said.

Odinga likewise thanked Mama Ida, Karua and his supporters for accompanying him on the journey to the house on the hill.