The Wiper Democratic Movement has defended its leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, following a statement from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) that dismissed speculation about Raila Odinga’s health and linked several political figures to the spread of misinformation.
In a statement released on Sunday, Wiper Secretary-General Senator Shakila Abdalla rejected ODM’s claims and accused the party of unfairly targeting Kalonzo.
“Let it be stated clearly: Kalonzo Musyoka harbours no ill whatsoever toward Mr Odinga. Any suggestion that he wishes harm upon Raila is baseless and misleading,” Abdalla said.
She described ODM’s statement as a diversion from the party’s own challenges and maintained that Wiper had no role in any discussions or reports concerning Mr Odinga’s health.
“ODM’s attempt to involve Kalonzo Musyoka in its internal matters is unnecessary and unfounded,” she added.
Abdalla also dismissed claims that Kalonzo was behind any misinformation regarding Mr Odinga’s unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship, saying the outcome had nothing to do with the Wiper leader.
“Mr Odinga’s AUC bid did not fail because of Mr Musyoka. It was influenced by factors beyond his control, including diplomatic and strategic considerations,” Abdalla said.
She further stated that the Wiper leader remains committed to justice and accountability and will not be drawn into what she termed political sideshows.
Her remarks came after ODM, through Raila Odinga’s Secretariat, dismissed reports about Mr Odinga’s health as false and accused certain political figures of being behind a misinformation campaign.
Raila Odinga’s spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, said the alleged misinformation was part of a broader smear effort by individuals who had previously opposed Mr Odinga’s African Union bid.
“The hope of this team then and now is to use Mr Odinga’s name for political leverage in their rivalry with President William Ruto,” Onyango said.
He emphasised that Raila Odinga has always been open and transparent about his health, citing past instances when he publicly disclosed his medical condition.
“He told the country that he was undergoing a procedure when he was hospitalised as a sitting Prime Minister in June 2010. He told the country that he was diagnosed with Covid and hospitalised as the Opposition leader in 2021. He would do the same today were he to be in the health situation his opponents wish,” the statement added.
Onyango clarified that the ODM leader is not unwell as reported by some bloggers and media houses.
He said Raila left the country on Friday evening for one of his many routine trips and did not travel to Europe as alleged.
