ODM leader Raila Odinga is forging a behemoth political machine that will be unveiled at Friday's Kasarani jamboree where he will announce his bid for the presidency.
The Star has established that Raila will announce the umbrella Azimio La Umoja Movement, bringing on board all political parties supporting his bid.
The vast stadium is decorated in orange for ODM, royal blue and white banners. Those are the new colours. Huge letter Rs, written in orange-gold with a flourish, are placed against a royal blue background.
Raila's think tanks are using the event to demonstrate his national and international appeal in a major counteroffensive to Deputy President William Ruto, his formidable opponent.
On Thursday Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi who ditched ODM confirmed that he would board the Azimio La Umoja train.
More than 30 of 47 governors and hundreds of elected leaders are expected at the event in the 60,000-seat capacity stadium.
“Pan African Alliance (PAA) fully embraces the unity rallying call that defines the Azimio La Umoja agenda,” the party said, confirming its officials would be at Kasarani.
Insiders who spoke to the Star said the Azimio La Umoja Movement would be a behemoth, bringing together many political parties to make Raila's presidency a reality.
This is his fifth run for State House.
In August, when he launched the unity drive in Nakuru, Raila promised a big political machine that will take Kenyans to “the Promised Land”.
"We will unveil the vehicle that has space for the diversity of Kenyans to the Promised Land," the former Prime Minister said.
However, the One Kenya Alliance chiefs have snubbed the event as Raila's relationship with some of the alliance principals has deteriorated. (See separate story on page 6)
ANC party boss Musalia Mudavadi and his Ford Kenya counterpart Moses Wetang'ula confirmed on Thursday that they will skip the event.
Musalia termed Raila "a worthy competitor".
The ANC boss however appeared to be taking his cue from Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala who had slammed Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka for inviting "enemy" Raila to his event.
Kalonzo had invited Raila to Wiper's National Delegates Conference two weeks ago.
On Thursday, Raila’s right-hand man Junet Mohamed said the launch of the movement will be the climax of the Friday event.
Addressing the press at Moi International Stadium, Kasarani, the venue of the event, the Suna East MP said Raila will answer requests by Kenyans urging him to declare his candidacy during regional meetings.
The fourth time presidential candidate has held 14 regional meetings in four months.
It is going to be not too long and not too short, a brief political event and the climax will be Baba's address to the nation
During the meetings, he has centred his agenda around unity, economic restoration, eliminating corruption and revival of industries.
He has also advocated for a social protection welfare programme that give disadvantaged households a Sh6,000 monthly stipend.
“Raila is going to launch something tomorrow (Friday). There is a launch we expect him to do, with his address and launch, then we are good to go,” Junet said.
He added, “It is going to be not too long and not too short, it is going to be a brief political event and the climax and end will be the address of Baba to the nation that will end the function.”
The ODM boss inspected on Thursday the venue.
He was accompanied by Junet, Governors Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu), Wycliffe Oparanya (Kakamega), James Ongwae (Kisii).
Also accompanying the Raila were businessman SK Macharia and former Westlands MP Fred Gumo.
Junet – who also chairs the Azimio La Umoja Planning Committee – said they are satisfied with the preparations.
“Kasarani Stadium is ready, the event is ready for kick-off. The PM came to check what is going on and he is happy with all the preparations," the National Assembly Minority leader said.
He urged Kenyans turn up in large numbers, saying the gates will open at 6am.
The event will start at 8.30am, according to the programme seen by the Star.
Raila’s convoy is to make its way into the parking arena at around 11.30am.
A number of artists including gospel singer Anastacia Mukabwa will entertain guests.
At around 2pm Raila’s family led by Ida Odinga will officially hand over the former PM to Kenyans, a demonstration that he has his family's blessings as he goes for the country’s top seat.
Oparanya said the event is not an endorsement but just people urging the ODM leader to join the race.
(Edited by V. Graham)
