Raila Odinga Cancels Mega Homa Bay Rally

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has canceled his scheduled Homa Bay tour, which was set to begin on Thursday, August 5 into the weekend.

The cancellation was confirmed by the former prime minister’s right-hand man Junet Mohamed.

The Suna East member of parliament said the anticipated mega rally was called off in the wake of surging COVID-19 infections and the ban on political gatherings by the Ministry of Health.

“In fact, they called us yesterday. Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe called ODM and told us to stop these gatherings until the infection rates come down. He told us the situation was not good. I was also called by Inspector General of Police who urged me to stop the gatherings,” Junet said as quoted by The Standard.

The second-term MP said they would proceed with the rally on August 18 if the infections would have decreased then.

According to an ODM insider who sought anonymity, highly charged local politics also came into play with gubernatorial aspirants close to the former PM, Evans Kidero, John Mbadi, Gladys Wanga, and Oyugi Magwanga jostling for his endorsement.

“Baba was to engage the people but there were also fears that some aspirants would use his visit to seek endorsement. We want a fair level ground,” the source said.

William Ruto cancels scheduled public rallies

TUKO.co.ke earlier reported Deputy President William Ruto canceled all his scheduled public rallies following a ban on gatherings placed by the Ministry of Health to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Announcing his social media pages, the second in command further urged Kenyans to take individual responsibility and adhere to guidelines issued.

The COVID-19 situation in the country has escalated as stated by GoK this afternoon. My scheduled public engagements are hereby postponed until further notice,” Ruto tweeted.

“We all should take individual responsibility and adhere to guidelines issued so as to control this ravaging pandemic,” he added.