This archive report was first published on 7 October 2019.
On October 5, 2019, Raila Odinga visited the Likoni area, accompanied by Likoni MP Mishi Mboko and ferry company CEO Dan Mwazo, to announce that dredging operations would be halted immediately.
The move was aimed at facilitating the search for the bodies of a mother and her child who went missing in the area.
However, the directive has sparked controversy, with some politicians questioning Raila's authority to issue such orders.
DP Ruto's supporters, led by Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua, have asked government officials to ignore Raila's directive, saying it is just a 'personal opinion.'
"Hiyo ni mizaha yake tu. Maafisa wa serikali wapuuze matamshi hayo... ni wapi kiongozi wa upinzani hutoa amri kwa maafisa wa serikali?" Gachagua asked.
On the other hand, Raila has maintained that he has the authority to issue such directives, citing his role as a key leader in the opposition.
"Nimeskia kuna shughuli za usafishaji bahari zinazoendelea hapa na zinatatiza juhudi za kutafuta miili ya waliozama. Kwa hivyo natoa amri mara moja kuwa shughuli hizo za kusafisha bahari zisitishwe," Raila said.
