Guide Note

In late December of 2007, it was rumored that Raila Odinga was arrested after being defeated by Mwai Kibaki in the Kenyan presidential election. The day after the arrest rumors surfaced, Odinga appeared in public unharmed, thus dispelling the rumors.

Fast Facts

1. The election was decided by 230,000 votes
2. Odinga called for a recount
3. Odinga maintained that the electoral commission was forced to declare erroneous results

During a press conference on December 30, 2007, Odinga called for supporters to protest against the election results the following day. Police warned Odinga that he would be arrested if he continued with the demonstration, so it was rescheduled for January 3, 2007.