Rosemary Odinga addresses a public rally at Kamukunj grounds, Kibera. She has opted out of the area parliamentary race. [PHOTO/the-star.co.ke]
Raila Odinga's daughter Rosemary on Monday withdrew from the Kibra MP race ahead of the ODM nominations today Tuesday.
In a video footage posted on her official Facebook page, Rosemary said she could not continue with her bid to oust incumbent Ken Okoth but said she would instead serve the people of Kibra in other capacities.
Rosemary said the reason she was bowing out of the race was her doctor's recommendation that instructed her to shun among others the active involvement in politics.
"I must say, the past two years have been the honour of my life getting to engage in the place known as the 'Heart Beat' of Kenyan politics, not only as a voter but also as a competitor. The spirit of the people of Kibra and their passion for justice has always inspired us as a family to champion their interests both in and out of Parliament," she said."Regrettably I am bowing out of the race for Member of Parliament. I would like to thank each and every person that supported my bid and the people of Kibra for opening their hearts and homes to me. I will forever cherish your outpouring of love and prayers," she added.
She thanked the people who stood by her in her political journey and asked them to continue standing with what they believe to be right."To my sisters, brothers, mothers and fathers of Kibra, we always knew the journey was not and will not be easy. You are known the world over for standing up for what you believe is right, do not let anyone extinguish that flame. Keep going, keep the fire burning and on August 8 2017, make your voice heard loud and clear and change Kenya for the better. God bless you all," she said.