‘Pray for Raila’: Caroli Omondi’s Appeal Sparks Fresh Debate Over Odinga’s Health
Confusion over Raila Odinga’s health has sparked national debate after Suba South MP Caroli Omondi called for nationwide prayers for the ODM leader’s recovery.
Speaking during a fundraising event in Rang’ala, Siaya County on Sunday, Omondi asked all Christians in Kenya to pray for Odinga’s quick recovery and strength. The MP who was once Odinga’s personal assistant emphasized unity in prayer for the long time opposition leader.
“I appeal to all Christians of all denominations across the Republic of Kenya to say a special prayer for our leader, Raila Odinga… that he may regain his full health and strength. As he recovers in hospital we hold him dearly in our thoughts and prayers,” Omondi said.
But Odinga’s team has dismissed claims that the former Prime Minister is unwell. His spokesperson Dennis Onyango said the reports are political propaganda and that Odinga had travelled out of the country.
“Raila travelled out of the country on Friday evening, one of the many trips he has made this year and definitely not the last. He is not indisposed as prayed for by his frustrated opponents,” Onyango said.
The statement comes as rumors have been circulating that Odinga had travelled for medical reasons. A senior ODM official who spoke to The Daily Nation on condition of anonymity said the party leader had gone for a routine medical check-up – a practice he has been doing since he underwent head surgery in 2010.
Odinga’s absence from several ODM events including rallies in Kisii, Wajir and Narok has fuelled the speculation. His last public appearance was on October 3 when he chaired a planning meeting for the party’s 20th anniversary celebrations at Serena Hotel.
Political Reactions
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has weighed in on the controversy saying Odinga should come out in public to clear the air.
“If a leader is said to be unwell and he is fine just continue with your duties. If you want to prove people wrong step out and show yourself. President Moi used to do that – he would appear in public and all rumors would disappear,” Gachagua said in an interview on KTN.
The remarks drew sharp criticism from ODM politicians who accused Gachagua of using the situation for political gain.Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu hit back at Gachagua saying:
“There’s this man Gachagua who thinks maligning Raila Odinga is the way to lead. Raila’s health is none of his business. Even if Raila were unwell his bad wishes will amount to nothing.”
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also echoed the sentiments saying we need a unifying approach to national leadership.
“We need a leader who speaks for the whole nation not one who wakes up every morning thinking only of Mount Kenya,” Governor Wanga said during the Sigand Nyi Nam cultural event at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium.
As the speculation continues Odinga’s inner circle says there’s no cause for alarm, Odinga is active and focused on ODM’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
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‘Pray for Raila’: Caroli Omondi’s Appeal Sparks Fresh Debate Over Odinga’s Health