HARARE Kenya Prime Minister Raila Odinga Prior to his trip to Bulawayo, he is expected to pay a courtesy call on President Mugabe, whom he has openly criticised.
MDC International Relations chief, Eliphas Mukoweshuro, declined to disclose details of Odingas itinerary, saying it was subject to confirmation by concerned parties.
But our source said Odinga would arrive on Thursday and travel to Bulawayo the following day. He is expected to conduct a session on democracy and social justice, according to one senior official in the MDC -T party.
But MDC spokesman Nelson Chamisa said: I am not aware. There is nothing like that.
The former opposition Kenyan leader is in a power-sharing government with President Mwai Kibaki, following a post-election crisis. Because of their congruent circumstances, Odinga and Tsvangirai enjoy cordial relations, and both claim they were denied victory in elections that sparked an orgy of violence.
Foreign Affairs permanent secretary Joe Bimha said government would extend protocol services and usual diplomatic niceties to Odinga but all other expenses would be borne by the MDC.
Odinga was invited by the MDC, not the government, so all his expenses will be paid from the partys purse, Bimha said. The ministry will only extend protocol for Odinga by welcoming him on his arrival, sending him off on his departure and facilitating any meetings with government officials.
Post published in: News