Raila vows not to betray Kenyans as he prepares to reclaim ODM leadership

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga now says he will not betray Kenyans as he prepares to give a much-anticipated political direction to his supporters on Friday, on whether or not to formalize the political marriage with President William Ruto.

Raila is expected to take back the mantle of the ODM party leader during the 'ODM at 20' convention in Busia County on Friday and in an admission of the weight of his decision, the former premier says the people will be his true north.

“We are not going to betray our people in whatever we do. What we are going to do will be in the interest of our people of Kenya,” said Raila.

He added that he has considered and continues to gather views from his supporters before making the crucial decision.

“I have listened very carefully to the views expressed and I can say they have given me a carte blanche, a blank cheque, and they said they will support whatever we do,” he said.

Raila has been at a crossroads since returning from his failed mission in Addis Ababa, with both the opposition members and the government wooing him to their side.

As he warms up to the formalization of the ODM and Kenya Kwanza pact, Raila also raised concerns over the efficiency of the Social Health Authority (SHA).

“The government is introducing SHA. It is not working, but I know countries where it is working. If it is properly implemented, it will be a game changer for our country,” he said.

Raila’s sentiments come as preparations at Bukiri Primary School in Funyula Constituency, Busia County, for the 'ODM at 20' event, entered the home stretch Thursday.

Reports indicate that the ODM Central Management Committee, which has been burning the midnight oil to prepare for the convention, has reportedly agreed to have Raila take back the mantle as the ODM party leader.

Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang' Nyong'o has been acting party leader for about a year when Raila was campaigning for the African Union Commission Chairmanship (AUC) role.