This archive report was first published on 10 July 2020.
On June 25th, 2020, Raila Odinga, the ODM leader, underwent a minor surgery on his back in Dubai. The surgery was performed after he had checked himself into Nairobi Hospital on June 29th, 2010, for a head operation.
According to Dr. Oginga, Raila's eldest brother, the surgery was not a serious health issue, but rather a minor one. 'Jakom (Raila) is out of the country for a minor surgical operation on his back. It is not a serious health issue, but just a minor one. So, he's okay,' Dr. Oginga said.
However, the timing of the surgery has raised eyebrows, with some speculating that it's a strategic move by Odinga to stay ahead of the pack. The Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) is currently underway, and Odinga's absence has been felt in the political landscape.
As Governor Hassan Joho and Minority Whip Junet Mohammed flew to Dubai to be with Odinga, it was clear that the ODM leader's allies were eager to show their support. 'Delighted to see my party leader Baba @RailaOdinga looking fit and in high spirits after undergoing the surgical procedure in Dubai last week. We in Mombasa and the country at large continue to pray for his speedy recovery and a safe return home to Kenya,' Governor Joho tweeted.
With Odinga's history of making grand returns to the political scene, it's possible that this trip is just the beginning of another chapter in his political career. In 2014, Odinga returned to Kenya after a six-month sabbatical, and his supporters welcomed him with open arms.
As the AU Envoy, Odinga may be using this opportunity to stay out of the country for a while longer, making the hearts of his followers and rivals grow fonder. Only time will tell if this is a strategic move or a genuine health concern.
