AZIMIO LA UMOJA

'Allied forces': Gideon hints at backing Raila in State House bid

Taking to the podium during Raila's Azimio la Umoja convention on Friday, he said "We are allied forces..."

In Summary

• Taking to the podium during Raila's Azimio la Umoja convention on Friday, he said "We are allied forces..."

• His comment came after Cotu secretary general, who had just left the podium, urged Gideon to ditch Oka and join forces with Raila.

Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, Baringo Senator Gideon Moi and Kisii Governor James Ongwae at the Azimio La Umoja meeting at Kasarani on December 10, 2021.
Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, Baringo Senator Gideon Moi and Kisii Governor James Ongwae at the Azimio La Umoja meeting at Kasarani on December 10, 2021.
Image: FREDERICK OMONDI

Kanu party leader Gideon Moi has hinted at a possible partnership with ODM leader Raila Odinga in his bid for the presidency.

Taking to the podium during Raila's Azimio la Umoja convention on Friday, he said, "What we are is allied forces. Baba's gain in gaining ground is our gain. When we gain ground on our side, it's our gain."

"The forces are allied. We are one. We know the moving target... Put all your arsenal, we are also firing there, then we will see how the future will look."

Gideon's comment came after Cotu secretary general, who had just left the podium, urged Gideon to ditch Oka and join forces with Raila.

Kanu's Cyrus Jirongo echoed Gideon's sentiments, saying, "If Raila wins, it's a win for us and we win, he has won."

Gideon said, "I was not to come here because of the funeral I got but because of the respect he gave me, I said I must come here."

Gideon had on Thursday announced his mother-in-law Mama Afia Juma passed away.

Gideon, during his speech at Kasarani, went on to say, "I ask Kenyans, who can you trust with the resources of Kenya? Whom will we trust with the education system? Who will you trust with health  care; who will you trust with your security?"

"I tell you, you trust those who are here and those who are in Oka. Outside that realm, it's another thing."

Gideon is the only co-principal of Oka who attended Raila’s big event, breaking ranks with his colleagues, who have skipped the convention.

Gideon was among dignitaries who first made their way to Safari Park hotel to accompany the former Prime Minister to the stadium.

The Baringo senator was accompanied by Kanu secretary general Nick Salat and Tiaty MP William Kamket.

On Thursday, Oka bosses Musalia Mudavadi (ANC) and Moses Wetang'ula (Ford Kenya) said they would not attend the event.

Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka is away in South Sudan.

"I will not be able to attend because of my personal engagements. Raila Odinga is a worthy competitor, I wish him well because tomorrow will clearly be his day in the sun," Mudavadi said.

The ANC leader has in recent weeks launched scathing attacks on Raila and President Uhuru Kenyatta, dimming any chances of a political deal.

 

Edited by CM

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