ODM leader Raila Odinga has embarked on a strategy aimed at replacing ex-NASA chiefs ahead of the crucial 2022 presidential race.
This is after he parted ways with those former partners including Musalia Mudavad (ANC), Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), and Moses Wetang’ula of Ford Kenya over who would be the 2022 presidential flag bearer.
As one of Raila Odinga’s tactics to replace ex-NASA chiefs who have since formed the One Kenya Alliance, the ODM leader has recruited other upcoming leaders from their backyards specifically Kalonzo Musyoka’s Eastern region and Western Kenya where Mudavadi and Wetang’ula enjoy massive support.
After a failed attempt by President Uhuru Kenyatta to unite the opposition and support a Raila Presidency, the all-time presidential aspirant has maintained that he will be on the ballot come 2022.
Since this will not be an easy task to face off with Deputy President William Ruto whose United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party is gaining grass root support, Raila has embarked on the recruitment of new faces specifically from OKA strongholds.
Reliable sources reveal that Raila Odinga has recruited Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua from the Ukambani region, which is considered to be the official stronghold of Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
Governor Mutua who has been collaborating with his Kitui counterpart Charity Ngilu and Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana to fight Kalonzo Musyoka has been accompanying Raila Odinga in recent events pointing out that the two could be working together.
On Friday, Mutua accompanied Raila to Kiambu County barely two weeks after accompanying the forme premier to another occasion in Muranga County.
Speaking at the event, Mutua told Raila to stand firm and that he should not be intimidated and isolated by the OKA leaders.
“Let those who want to quit go. We are ready to partner and work with like-minded leaders who want to bring change,” Mutua said.
In the western region considered to be Mudavadi and Wetangula strongholds, Raila appears to have captured Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya and Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugine Wamalwa.
In the same region, Raila relies on the support of ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Bungoma governor Wycliffe Wangamati and his Vihiga counterpart Williber Otichilo as well as nominated MP Godfrey Ososti.
