Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has issued a public apology to Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition leaders and journalists following a disruptive incident that cut short a press conference by co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.
In a statement released on Thursday, July 18, 2024, Odinga expressed deep regret over the events that transpired shortly after his departure from the press conference venue.
He acknowledged that some of the individuals involved in the disruption were known to the parties, while others were unidentified.
“Yesterday, at the conclusion of extensive and productive discussions on national developments and the opposition’s stance, a group of youths, some known and many unknown to us, invaded the venue and forcibly removed participants,” Odinga stated.
He continued, “Raila Odinga deeply regrets the occurrences of yesterday and takes this early opportunity to extend sincere apologies to the journalists and fellow leaders who were caught up in this unfortunate incident.”
The press conference, hosted at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, was abruptly interrupted when a group of individuals stormed the venue, shouting and demanding the immediate cessation of the meeting.
Journalists covering the event were reportedly roughed up during the commotion.
Leaders present during the incident included former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma, Kitui Senator Enock Wambua, and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, among others.
Odinga had left the event earlier for an urgent engagement, leaving Musyoka to continue addressing the gathering.
Kalonzo Musyoka, speaking before the disruption, condemned the actions as an attempt to thwart discussions within the coalition regarding proposed talks with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition.
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