In Front of Ruto, Uhuru Broke Precedent by Discreetly Endorsing Raila Odinga for the President in 2022

President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM Leader Raila Odinga. /FACEBOOK

President Uhuru Kenyatta sent a strong signal yesterday by endorsing Raila Odinga for the presidency in 2022.

Uhuru Kenyatta broke precedent by asking Raila Odinga to speak after him at the Jamhuri Day celebrations.

Deputy President William Ruto is expected to ask President Uhuru to be the last speaker and end the event at such a major gathering.

This was not the case, since after delivering his speech, the Head of State summoned Raila Odinga to address the crowd.

Uhuru praised Raila Odinga for his role in improving the Uhuru Gardens during the occasion.

"Raila Odinga and I have been in contact for about 14 months, since I began working on the Uhuru Gardens project."

"We've been here with him as he gave me counsel, and we appreciate him for what he's helped us accomplish," Uhuru remarked before introducing Raila Odinga

Following a similar violation of etiquette during the Mashujaa Day festivities in October and Madaraka Day celebrations in June, when Uhuru asked Raila to speak, this episode occurred.

This might be seen as President Uhuru Kenyatta gradually backing Raila Odinga for the presidency in 2022.

Apart from the etiquette violations, Uhuru recently said that Raila Odinga is his favored successor.

On December 1, at the opening of Nakuru City, Uhuru cautioned his Deputy William Ruto about the rushed campaigning, warning Raila Odinga may beat him.

"Leadership isn't like playing soccer on the pitch; it's not a sprint...

It's a marathon; you'll run, but by the time you get close to the finish line, you'll be out of breath."

"However, on the way, an elderly guy (Raila Odinga) will pass you (William Ruto)." "Momos (slowly)..." says the narrator. Uhuru remarked.