According to Raila Odinga, the Unity deal has allows him access some critical deals in government as well as limitations. However the keys he has can unlock doors that closely impact hugely on government affairs.
Raila Odinga has warned MPs from the ruling Jubilee party from dragging their problems in his name. Raila says that Jubilee has its own problems just like any other party and his association with president Uhuru has nothing to do with the party.
“I am not a member of Jubilee, so I am only concerned about ODM matters. Jubilee has its internal problems, like any party. The Jubilee MPs should not drag us into their fights,” he said.
A section of MPs especially allied to Deputy president william Ruto have been accusing the opposition chief of using the handshake to scuttle the DPs presidential ambitions.
Oscar Sudi has been the latest MP from Ruto’s backyard who has strongly condemned the handshake and accusing the opposition of bringing division to the party.
Raila Odinga further alleges that his unity deal has given him roles in the government, perhaps explaining his meetings with senior officials. He however dismissed claims that he had “summoned” CSs on several occasions, saying that the meetings were “just normal invites” to discuss development projects.
“I cannot summon anyone because that would mean I am the boss. But I can invite the CSs to my office to discuss development projects,” he said.
The African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa says his increased engagement with government officials allows him to meet CS to discuss development.
“The President and I agreed that there are responsibilities in which I can assist because I have experience in running government,” Mr Odinga said
With the country marking a year since the the march 9 handshake, the opposition chief has insisted that the opposition is strong and using new tactics to tackle national issues.
“The opposition is still there. We have just changed tack. A few years back, we used to speak out against corruption but no one listened because they claimed that Raila was being malicious. But now the government is listening,” said Mr Odinga on Thursday.
The DP’s allies have expressed concerns about the handshake, questioning Mr Odinga’s honesty in his dealings with the President.