Raila Odinga Jets Out of Country Days After Gachagua's Highly Publicised Return
- The former deputy Rigathi Gachagua arrived in the country after cutting short his United States of America tour
- His return was highly publicised, with his supporters camping at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) waiting for his arrival
- Days later, the former prime minister Raila Odinga has announced his departure from the country, explaining the reasons behind his decision
Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya
Former prime minister and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, Raila Odinga has announced his departure from the country
Source: Facebook
The party leader took to his social media platforms on Saturday, August 23, to announce the move.
This announcement comes days after the former deputy president, Rigathi Gachagua, arrived in the country after he cut short his United States of America tour.
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Gachagua's return was highly publicised, with his supporters flocking to the country's busiest airport, JKIA, in a bid to receive him.
A huge crowd followed his motorcade out of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and followed him on his way to the Kamukunji grounds.
However, his return was marred by chaos, with goons infiltrating the procession. They threw stones at Gachagua's motorcade.
The Democracy Citizen Party (DCP) leader's supporters retaliated by throwing stones at the goons, prompting the police to intervene by lobbing teargas.
This was done to disperse the already charged crowd.
Why did Raila fly out of country?
The former premier stated that he was taking a break from the country and its politics to spend time with his loved ones.
Seemingly stressing the importance of rest, Raila said he was taking time to recharge before rejoining the country’s political scene upon his return.
"On a short break away from Kenya with family and friends, taking time to recharge. See you soon," Gachagua said.
Source: Facebook
How did Kenyans react to Raila's announcement?
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Kenyans took to their social media platforms to respond to Raila's announcement, with some making speculations about his travel, while others wished him a safe journey.
Gen Edwin Kiprotich:
"Safe flight, Jakom. See you at JKIA when you jet back."
Pauline Njoroge:
"Have a restful one Baba."
Stanley Mark:
"You are planning to show Gachagua how someone should come back home."
Ati Aty:
"Now you want a grand entry."
Jimmy Odhiambo:
"Baaaas, we will now receive you at the airport."
Ishamael Sheunda:
"You also want a grand entry like Gachagua. No way."
Did Raila fly to United Kingdom
This is not the first time Raila has publicly announced his departure from the country.
The veteran politician left the country in May 2024, following an invitation from the Oxford African Society.
According to his then spokesperson, Dennis Onyango, Raila was set to deliver a keynote speech at the famed institution of higher learning.
Onyango stated that the ex-prime minister and political bigwig was invited to talk about the topic "Forging AFRICA'S future: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal"
Source: TUKO.co.ke
