Movement For The Defense Of Democracy Warns Raila Against Working With Gachagua
The Movement for the Defense of Democracy has cautioned former Prime Minister Raila Odinga against forming any political alliance with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
In a statement, the movement expressed concern over increasing efforts by various political players attempting to involve Odinga in their strategies. They specifically pointed out Gachagua and other politicians, including Moses Kuria, whom they accused of trying to persuade Odinga and his supporters to join their camp with promises of mobilizing the Mt. Kenya region to back his presidential bid.
“We have observed intense efforts by impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and others, like Moses Kuria, to lure Odinga and his supporters with promises of Mt. Kenya support. We have resolved that we are not boarding Gachagua’s vehicle,” the statement read.
The group further expressed deep suspicion about Gachagua’s intentions, urging Odinga to remain cautious.
“We are apprehensive and deeply suspicious of Gachagua’s agenda, and we urge Hon. Odinga not to lower his guard,” they stated.
MDD also called on both President William Ruto and Odinga to prioritize the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, arguing that it offers viable solutions to many of the country’s pressing challenges. They encouraged young people and all Kenyans to support and demand the implementation of the bipartisan report, emphasizing that the nation’s future depends on it.
The movement further urged individuals and regions that have never previously supported Odinga to refrain from using him for political gain.
“We reject repeated attempts to use Odinga and his support base as a political stepping stone. As people and regions that have stood with Odinga, we are now reviewing our political journey, and we must be left alone, with Odinga as our guide,” the statement added.
Despite their firm stance, the movement thanked President Ruto for his commitment and support for Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.