A Nyamira MP has defended Cord leader Raila Odinga’s decision to use a plastic chair as a temporary podium during his recent tour to Nyamira County after a photo taken at the event went viral on social media.
Mr Odinga opted to use the chair following calls from his audience who wanted to see him from a far distance during the rally at the assembly grounds.
But North Mugirango MP Charles Geni has accused the county leadership of ‘frustrating’ organisers of the venue by using the speaker’s office to deny them permit to use the County Assembly grounds.
“There was nothing wrong with the former Prime Minister using the chair as a temporary podium. He just used it for a few minutes when the audience demanded to see him from a distance since the ground on which he was standing was a bit low,” Geni said.
“As organisers, we were frustrated by the county government which had opposed the use of the assembly grounds and we are all aware how the Governor effectively used the office of the speaker to delay setting up the venue,” he added.
He slammed those who were spreading the photo online saying they lacked courtesy and basic understanding of what precipitated use of the chair by Mr Odinga.
“Those who understand the ordeal that organises was going through cannot even raise a question about it. However, our party leaders were tolerant and decided to be so ordinary to use the chairs. It shows the humility side of him,” Geni added.
Mr Odinga had earlier in March this year fallen from a podium during campaigns in Malindi constituency.