Raila Takes Time Off Campaigns After Doctors' Advice

ODM leader Raila Odinga has taken a short vacation following weeks of intense campaigns across the country.

Odinga’s nationwide meetings culminated in him declaring his bid for the presidency in 2022 at the Azimio La Umoja convention at Kasarani Stadium on December 10th.

Speaking to The Standard on Thursday, Odinga said he is taking some time off politics following advice from his doctors.

The 76-year-old presidential aspirant arrived in Mombasa earlier this week for a brief vacation before resuming the second phase of his campaigns.

"I'm in Mombasa to rest for three days. I've not held any meetings today. I was advised to rest after Kasarani. After the three days, I will talk to different people and groups," he told the publication.

Odinga says he is working on a national movement that will change the country’s political and economic landscape.

Last week, Odinga announced the launch of the Azimio La Umoja Movement as his vehicle to State House, saying he is running for president to “mold one indivisible nation.”

“I do hereby accept to present myself as a presidential candidate at the Presidential Election on 9th of August 2022 following the request and unanimous decision by this Azimio La Umoja,” said Odinga in his speech.

“I am not running for president to oppose anyone but to propose better policies. I am in this race to mold one indivisible nation. I am not at war with personalities, I am at war with ideologies that would lead this nation in the wrong direction,” he added.

This will be Odinga’s fifth stab at the presidency, having unsuccessfully contested in 1997, 2007, 2013, and 2017.