The National Super Alliance (NASA) has finally named its lineup. The team will be led by Hon Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka, supported by Musalia Mudavadi, Moses Wetang’ula and Isaac Ruto.
With that important announcement, the Jubilee Party now knows its competitors. This is a special moment for the former Premier. Having made three previous unsuccessful attempts to win the presidency, the 2017 election marks the last stab. Many have described it as the last bullet.
To most Kenyans, the candidature provides Raila a perfect chance to get the coveted seat. The ODM leader must put all the calories into the presidential contest. Past experiences have shown that the former Prime Minister runs a scaring campaign. His abrasive style of politics scares many, especially in the opponents’ zones.
If Raila is to run away with the top prize, he must change tack. Reaching out to Mt Kenya and Rift Valley is a must. The Gikuyu, Embu, and Meru Association (GEMA) business community would want to be assured that a Raila presidency is good for enterprise.
So are the Rift Valley farmers. Should the Opposition leader tackle those fears, the presidency is more than assured. NASA fraternity will be looking forward to a gentler Odinga who will appeal to the Jubilee constituency.
The same applies to Jubilee, if they must win a second term, it will depend on their ability to raid the NASA backyard. That is the kind of competition and politics the country expects from the two leading coalitions. Kenya should not be zoned into tribal blocs, but be free to all contestants. Raila has the best reform credentials compared to all the presidential candidates.
No one in the current crop of leaders can match. Democratic gains being enjoyed in Kenya are courtesy of Raila. But that is not enough to win the presidency. A lot needs to be done to clinch power. GEMA fears are a major obstacle. Will Raila calm the nerves of the Mt Kenya voters? Is he going to squander the golden chance? In addition, Odinga must tame his political supporters who usually scare away voters. The ball is in his court
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