Opposition leader Raila Odinga reportedly spoke with Tanzanian President John Magufuli yet again over the fate of detained Kenyan Don Bosco Gichana on Saturday, a source privy to the information has revealed.
Gichana was arrested in the neighbouring country in 2013 over alleged money laundering and fraud, and the US has also been fighting for his extradition to face charges abroad.
Speaking to this reporter on the phone, the source who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Raila was concerned with the continued detention of Gichana without clear charges.
“I want to confirm that Jakom (Raila) spoke with Magufuli and the talks were fruitful. Gichana could have been released a long time ago but the pressure from the US has been overwhelming. However, the Saturday’s discussion could see him released in a few weeks’ time,” said the source.
The source added: “the opposition chief has been very promising and he spent most of the time in Siaya pleading for Gichana’s release. Magufuli promised to work hard and ensure the businessman is released so the family should not worry.”
ODM national Treasurer Timothy Bosire who has been pushing for Gichana’s release on Saturday declined to give further details but insisted that his release was ‘as close as ever’.
“I attended his mum’s funeral and we promised to do our best. I don’t want to say much but all I know is that his release from the cells is as close as ever,” added the Kitutu Masaba MP.
In July this year, Raila sent a delegation led by former VP Kalonzo Musyoka to discuss the release of the embattled businessman.