Opposition leader Raila Odinga made a highly anticipated return to Kenya on Friday, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of political leaders and supporters at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Notable figures such as Martha Karua of Narc Kenya and Kalonzo Musyoka of the Wiper Democratic Movement led the welcoming committee.
Among those gathered to celebrate Odinga’s homecoming were Jubilee Party vice-chair David Murathe, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, former Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria, and a throng of dedicated Odinga supporters.
Odinga’s return sets the stage for a major rally at Nairobi’s Kamukunji grounds, where he is expected to address the escalating political crisis that has arisen in the wake of stalled bipartisan talks between his Azimio coalition and the ruling Kenya Kwanza Alliance. President William Ruto’s camp has been quick to exploit the situation, implementing a counter-strategy aimed at cornering their political adversaries.
The deadlock in negotiations began when the opposition walked out, protesting the inclusion of an opposition lawmaker as part of the government’s negotiating team. In response, the President’s faction hastily brokered a deal to integrate another opposition party into the ruling coalition.
Supporters of Raila Odinga and his sister, Ruth, rejoiced at the opposition leader’s return from the United Arab Emirates, gathering at the airport in a show of solidarity and enthusiasm for the forthcoming political showdown in Nairobi.