NASA leader Raila Odinga receives special treatment in South Africa

brian oruta

April 14, 2018 6:01 PM

Raila Odinga accorded special treatment at Winnie Mandela's burial

National Super Alliance principal Raila Odinga receiving a befitting welcome and presidential treatment during his visit to South Africa for the burial of Winnie Mandela.

On stand-by to receive him upon arrival was none other than Amb. Jean N. Kamau, High Commissioner of Kenya to South Africa.

Such welcomes have been rare for the former premier who has been a long standing critic of the Jubilee administration and is a clear indication of the change of heart.

The opposition chief was also given "presidential official" badge, making him an official state representative at the event.

This has since sparked speculations as to whether Odinga was representing President Uhuru Kenyatta at the event with some noting that it could be one of the benefits under the peace deal signed on 09 March between President Kenyatta and Odinga.

The opposition chief also held talks with key South African leaders including Deputy President David Mabuza, International Relations Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, Former President Thabo Mbeki.

In his tribute at the event, Odinga thanked South Africa for giving us (the world) Winnie Mandela and standing with her to date.

“A s we bury Winnie, it is our hope that her death will resurrect in all African countries the purpose of the struggles that we have waged at different times but often with the same goal of bequeathing freedom, dignity and economic empowerment to our people,” said Odinga.

The event was his first major visit outside the country since the famous March 09 handshake.

Meanwhile, the opposition leader’s supporters have also been warming up to politicians from the rival Jubilee camp.

Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta are among those who are scheduled to visit the opposition turf of Homabay and Migori counties respectively.

brian oruta