ODM leader Raila Odinga has, knowingly or unknowingly, given the clearest indication he will be in the 2022 presidential race, after months of avoiding the subject.
Speaking during an interview on Radio Citizen, Raila Odinga said he does not await President Uhuru Kenyatta’s endorsement for the presidency, but his vote, perhaps the clearest indication the opposition chief will be 2022 presidential race.
“I have not said I want Uhuru’s endorsement, neither has he said he will endorse me,
” (President) Uhuru (Kenyatta) has been my competitor, how will he endorse me?” the ODM leader wondered.
The former Langata MP went on to say his mission is to help (President) Uhuru accomplish his agenda during his second term.
“I have worked with him, we have talked in length he wants to bring change. He wants to fulfill his promises to Kenyans and go home. I respect that,
“I do not want president Uhuru’s endorsement, what I want is his vote. I will ask for his vote,” he added.
By saying he wants president Uhuru’s vote, Raila only confirms that he will contest for the presidency in 2022.
Recently, Raila Odinga also revealed his plan is to jail corrupt leaders once he ascends to power.
“They are hyenas. You see them come here in sheep’s clothing and claim they will fundraise for women and youth groups. That is stolen money,
“Where does he get the millions from? No one questions where this money is from. These are thieves who should be in Shimo la Tewa but they are walking all over in helicopters… when we get in government we will jail all these people,” Raila said at a gathering in Mombasa.
This was interpreted as a direct attack on his opponent, DP William Ruto, who has been active in making church contributions.
Ruto responded to Raila’s speech accusing him of embezzling funds through his close allies.
The fact that Raila is talking about his intentions when he ascends to power only means that he will contest the presidency.
The former Prime Minister has for long avoided directly mentioning he will contest the presidency but his close allies like ODM Chairman John Mbadi and his elder brother Oburu Odinga have been quoted saying Raila must be on the ballot in 2022,
Deputy President William Ruto is on record saying Raila Odinga is the only serious competitor he can face in the 2022 presidential election.
