On June 29, 2019, ODM leader Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto will attend separate functions in western Kenya, approximately 60 kilometers apart. Raila Odinga will join mourners at the funeral of former Amagoro MP Oduya Oprong in Teso, Busia County, while William Ruto will attend an Anglican Church of Kenya function in the diocese of Mumias, Kakamega County.
Oduya Oprong, a former assistant minister and trade unionist, passed away on May 25, 2019, at the age of 83, after a long illness. He had lived with a bullet in his head for 26 years following a failed assassination attempt in 1993.
Raila Odinga's Visit to Rift Valley ¶
The following day, on June 30, 2019, Raila Odinga will visit the Rift Valley, where he will be the chief guest at a function celebrating the retirement of Cherangany MP Joshua Kutuny's mother-in-law, Ruth Kiptoo, who is quitting teaching after 40 years of service. This will be Raila Odinga's first visit to the region since the 2017 General Election.
Local leaders have expressed their readiness to welcome Raila Odinga to the region, with Elgeyo-Marakwet ODM chairman Micah Kigen stating that the visit is a continuation of the Building Bridges campaign that began with the March 9, 2018, handshake between Raila Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta.
William Ruto's Presidential Ambitions ¶
William Ruto has intensified his tours in western Kenya, making over 15 trips to the region in the past six months as he lays the groundwork for his 2022 presidential ambitions. Despite this, Raila Odinga still enjoys considerable support in the region.
Elgeyo-Marakwet Governor Alex Tolgos has stated that the county is open to all Kenyans, and he will personally welcome Raila Odinga to the region. Meanwhile, ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi will engage with the electorate at the Musalia Powerhouse Forum in Chavakali, Vihiga County.
