In a classic case of political double speak, Azimio La Umoja leader Raila Odinga now says governors in ODM and the Azimio coalition are free to meet with President William Ruto.
“Governors are okay to meet the person sitting in the position of the President even though I don’t recognize the presidency of Ruto. You do not have to go to the President to have developments,” the former Prime Minister said during an interview with Ramogi TV on Monday night.
“We had a sit down with our governors and because they are elected to represent the people, we recognize the existence of a two-tire government. Governors can meet whoever is sitting as President,” Odinga said adding that he is cognizant of the fact that governors are the links between the national and county governments. He however said he does not recognize William Ruto as president.
“He is working as president because there is no vacuum, but I do not recognize him.” he said.
Just last week Odinga and his close confidants including Siaya Governor James Orengo called for the resignation of nine Nyanza legislators for meeting President Ruto and labelled them traitors.
The nine MPS are Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, MPs Felix Odiwuor (Langata), Mark Nyamita (Uriri), Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Paul Abuor (Rongo) and Walter Owino (Awendo).
Odinga has been criticized for not talking hard on governors who have openly associated themselves with the president.
