The families of former presidents Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel Moi and Mwai Kibaki are fully backing ODM leader Raila Odinga’s 2022 presidential bid, a backing made possible by President Uhuru Kenyatta’s intense lobbying.
According to online reports, the three former first families are comfortable with an Odinga presidency and strongly believe the country will be left in good hands if the former prime minister succeeds Uhuru next year.
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President Uhuru Kenyatta and his younger brother Muhuho Kenyatta enjoy a close working relationship with Raila Odinga, something which has been cemented by the current handshake. When the ODM leader contracted Covid-19 earlier in the year, Mohoho Kenyatta who has been a frequent guest to the Odingas paid him a visit at his Karen residence.
”Whereas some of the family members may not directly participate in the campaigns, they will be working from behind the scenes to ensure ‘Baba’ clinches the seat. There [have] already been indications to this effect,” a source in President Kenyatta’s administration said.
The clearest indication the Kenyattas have resolved to back Raila next year was at the Mt Kenya Foundation meeting in Safari Park where President Uhuru’s uncle George Muhoho was in attendance.
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Apart from the Kenyatta family, the Mois, led by Baringo Senator Gideon Moi has publicly associated with Mr. Odinga’s 2022 bid and it is believed KANU will be a part of a coalition to be headed by the ODM leader.
Former President Mwai Kibaki, another critical player in Mt Kenya politics will also be supporting the ODM leader through his son Jimmy, the current deputy leader of The New Democrats party.
According to Laikipia Governor Nderiitu Muriithi, the three families having confidence in Raila was a good thing.
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”Speaking for myself because I’m not family spokesman, actions speak louder than words and personally I support Raila for 2022. If these families have decided like that then it’s a very good thing. I’m sure every candidate would like to get everyone’s support, so if they have decided it’s Raila, let it be so,” he said.
