Opposition leader Raila Odinga has declined to be “sworn-in” as President on Tuesday citing preservation of his image to the international community.
Raila on Saturday turned down the move by a section of NASA politicians led by Siaya Senator James Orengo who were clamoring to have a parallel swearing-in ceremony for Raila.
In a closed door meeting that lasted five hours at Maanzoni Lodge in Machakos, Raila told his brigade that such a move would dent his image in the eyes of the international community.
He also said that if he is “sworn-in” as Kenya’s fifth “President”, all his effort in championing for the new constitution will be watered down.
“Some people in the coalition would have really wanted to go on with it (parallel swearing-in).But some people have called for caution, with Baba [Raila] himself being the biggest voice, citing his national stature, international image and his respect for the law, “ a NASA MP at the Maanzoni meeting told Sunday Nation.
On Thursday, the National Intelligence Service recommended to the National Security Council that Raila and his lieutenants be charged with treason should he take presidential oath.
Treason in Kenya is punishable by death.
Raila has refused to acknowledge President Uhuru Kenyatta’s re-election. He terms it a sham.
He says that Kenya is currently being led by an illegitimate President.
He is pushing for radical electoral and governance reforms which include holding fresh elections on February 9 next year.