Raila Dismisses Calls for Matiang’i Presidency

Last updated on September 11th, 2021 at 03:27 pm

Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga on Friday hinted at endorsing Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i for the Presidency, but added that time is not yet ripe for that.

Mr Odinga, who was addressing mourners during the burial of former assistant minister Hezron Manduku in Nyanturago, Kisii County, said those pushing for Dr Matiangi’s endorsement for the presidency could jeopardise his chances.

The clamour, Mr Odinga said, could also ruin the March 9, 2018 peace deal between him and President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“He is a very hardworking man. As such, don’t remind me what I am supposed to do. Time is not yet ripe. Hold your horses,” the ODM chief said.

The elevation of Dr Matiang’i to the position of chief minister by Mr Kenyatta put him in the limelight and some politicians, especially those from his Gusii backyard, have been urging him to contest the presidency in 2022.