Raila's visit to India sparks controversy
Does Raila have a new role?
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On Tuesday, Mr Odinga met with India Prime Minister Narendra Modi where they spoke about co-operation of the two countries in trade and investment in the health sector.
"We spoke on increased Indian investment in Kenya both in Industry and particularly in the health sector but also touched on the Maritime agreement whose aim is to boost transportation, trade and activity in Lake Victoria to see Kenya trade better with its neighbours via the lake," Odinga said in a tweet.
The visit saw political pundits speculate that the former Prime Minister's visit could have been made in his new role as State diplomat allegedly handed to him after the handshake with President Uhuru Kenyatta.
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According to analysts, Mr Odinga could be conducting the visit's with the support and approval of President Kenyatta.
Political analyst Joy Mdivo stated that the Head of State ought to clearly reveal Mr Odinga's role in Government.
"Perhaps the president needs to clearly spell out the role Raila Odinga is now playing so there is no confusion amongst Kenyans," she said during a TV interview.
However, Kandara MP Alice Wahome divulged in an interview that she was not aware Mr Odinga had been given such a position.
"I am not aware that Raila Odinga has been appointed as a state diplomat. I do not think it would be a bad role for him. However, I feel it would conflict his role as Opposition leader," she said.
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At the same time, Homa Bay Women Representative Gladys Wanga reiterated that Odinga's role as the Opposition leader still intact.
"The handshake has changed the environment within which we are operating. However, it will not stop us from over-sighting the government," Wanga said.
She dismissed questions raised over Odinga's meeting with PM Modi noting that the two leaders were simply great friends.
"Raila Odinga’s meeting with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is nothing out of the ordinary. Raila is a great Kenyan who is friends with PM Modi.
"What is wrong if Raila takes President Uhuru's greetings to the PM?" Wanga posed.
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