This archive report was first published on 27 July 2021.
On July 27, 2021, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga touched down in Murang'a County, marking a significant visit ahead of the 2022 presidential contest.
Accompanied by his wife, Mama Ida Odinga, and daughter Winnie, Raila arrived at the residence of media mogul SK Macharia in Ndakaini area, where he was warmly welcomed.
The event, dubbed the Skiza Thanking Ceremony, was organized by Mt Kenya musicians to express gratitude to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for exempting artistes from a proposed 25% excise duty in the Finance Bill.
Notably, the ceremony has been seen as a strategic move by Raila to endear himself in the region, which has historically voted against him in previous elections.
Speakers at the event, including Murang'a Governor Mwangi Wa Iria and Mt Kenya musicians, praised Raila and ODM for their support, urging county governments to create favourable laws for the entertainment industry.
Among the notable leaders present at the ceremony were governors James Nyoro (Kiambu), Alfred Mutua (Machakos), James Ongwae (Kisii), Wycliffe Oparanya (Kakamega), and Murang'a Woman Representative Sabina Wanjiru Chege.
As the 2022 presidential contest approaches, Raila's visit to Murang'a has sparked speculation about his presidential ambitions and his efforts to win over the region.
