Opposition leader Raila Odinga has confirmed ongoing talks with Tanzanian President John Magufuli over the release of embattled Kenyan businessman Don Bosco Gichana.
Gichana was arrested and detained by Tanzanian authorities slightly over three years ago following an order by United States of America government on allegation of fraud and money laundering.
Odinga Who met the family of Gichana and members of the civil society in Kisii on Thursday expressed optimism that the talks will yield fruits and urged Kenyans to be patient.
“I know my brother Gichana because he has been my friend for a long time. I understand the stress his family is going through and I want to confirm that I have spoken severally with President Pombe (John Magufuli) over the matter. I am optimistic that he will be released in due course,” he said.
Odinga also called upon the US to withdraw charges of money laundering.
He said that Interpol had failed to substantiate the charges against Gichana.
“This is not a new matter because he was released first in 2013 and arrested moments later even without evidence by Interpol. It’s time for US to give our brother his deserved freedom. I will not tire and I am confident of the support my friend (Pombe) is giving me from the other side. I also call upon President Uhuru Kenyatta to intervene in the matter and help solve it,” he said.
Gichana is wanted by the US State Department over money laundering and his extradition has been delayed following a conflict between Kenyan laws and the international law, because the case involves three countries (Kenya, US and Tanzania).
He is a close ally of the Kenyan opposition leader, and is on record for donating the famous Hammer vehicle for Raila’s 2007 campaigns.