There have been a growing speculation that Raila Odinga is preparing to run for the presidency again in 2022. Many say he is rebuilding his ODM party as part of this strategy.
On Saturday, Uhuru and Raila held an indoor meeting at Harambee house in Nairobi. They later announced they have left aside their political differences and have resorted to working towards uniting all Kenyans. However, the agenda of the surprise meeting was not disclosed.
In my view, the secret meeting was Raila's 2022 political ambitions and not about dialogue the NASA coalition has been insisting.
He could be seeking support from president Uhuru who is the political kingpin in the Kikuyu community. NASA coalition has been in cripples. The coalition has not been working together fully since Raila's mock swearing-in as 'Peoples president'
The Raila's core supporter have been urging him to ditch NASA and rebuild his ODM party.
Former Attorney General who is Busia County senator, Amos Wako in the past have urged Raila to reignite his political ambitions for the presidency. He said Raila is not too old to vie, supporting his remarks from the Bible and history.
"When did Mandela took over as South Africa president, wasn't he in the 70s? When did Jomo Kenyatta become president, wasn't he over 70?"
"In the Bible, Moses took over the struggle when he was 78. Raila are you 78? And in 2022, you won't be even 78. Raila will continue," chided Wako as quoted by the standard.
The remarks from NASA co-Principals and their absence from the meeting at Harambee house was loud enough to clear out that Raila is rebranding himself for 2022.
Political analyst, Mutahi Ngunyi said that Raila is a foxy player and a cornerstone in Kenyan Politics. He said Raila is seeking to split the Kikuyu votes with Ruto come 2022.
"Raila has staged a coup in NASA and is more concern about his heritage and 2022."
"He is a foxy player and his chances for 2022 are not bad."
"The bottom line is Raila will split the Kikuyu vote with Ruto, or he may even deal with him," quoted Ngunyi.
These are clear indications that Raila is in politics to stay. Furthermore, he has not announced his retirement from politics rocking fears in the opposition.