This archive report was first published on 20 July 2020.
ODM Party leader Raila Odinga has taken a 21-day break from politics, as advised by his doctors. The former Prime Minister recently returned to Kenya from Dubai and will refrain from active politics for 14 days.
According to Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, who met with Odinga, the ODM leader is taking a rest to focus on his health. Oparanya stated, "He dwelt on his surgery so we have to wait for his full recovery to engage him in politics. He has to finish 21 days and nothing will happen until those days are over."
Other leaders who met with Odinga, including ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, Cotu Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, and nominated MP Godfrey Osotsi, also confirmed that Odinga's health is the present focus.
As the country gears up for constitutional changes through the BBI and with Deputy President William Ruto readying his troops for the 2022 battle, Odinga's break from politics is seen as a strategic move to prioritize his health.
