
“When the country was burning, former Pres. Kenyatta called me and asked me to reach out to Pres. Ruto to find a solution to the issues being raised by Gen Zs. We talked and I told him my thoughts and how to deal with the situation” (…) “I am not in government. We never agreed with Ruto that we should have a coalition government. He requested me to help him identify people from my side to serve in his administration. I did exactly that. I am confident we shall move forward as a nation” (…) “I have shown interest in the AUC chairperson’s job, but I will not be settled down there in Adis Ababa when my home country is in turmoil. It is my responsibility to help stabilize the country for posterity” – Raila Odinga (13.08.2024)
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader is trying to forge a narrative and make him seem likable after assessing the situation and finding a way to have more prominence. We knew that risk was there and evident when he started to apply for the AUC Chairperson role. Because the old man needs support from the government to even be able or be eligible to apply for the role itself.
Now his just carrying the water and trying to be independent. While his party is in direct association and working with the government. A coalition partner by default and his allies are appointed into the cabinet as Cabinet Secretaries. That’s not just a random squad of people, but leaders and representatives he trusts. People who have rose through the ranks of his party and has been elected by his party too. Therefore, he is thinking people are blind and not understanding the ideals here.
Odinga can pin and put blame on Kenyatta. That Kenyatta was the reason for the CS’s of ODM becoming a part of government. Nevertheless, they have all egos and agency to act on their own. Kenyatta can ask and petition someone, but that doesn’t make way for others. It jus shows Kenyatta’s importance in the Azimio coalition. As Odinga is using Kenyatta’s presence as a reason to act or even participate in government. Which is narrowminded, as Odinga could do it all on his own and didn’t need Kenyatta’s blessing.
It just shows that the three leaders all know each other and dances when needed. This is no Building Bridges, but it is a “broad based” government. Alas, it is giving leverage to Ruto and at the same time power to Odinga. It is just in the open and everyone can see the motives. This isn’t helping the causes of the Gen Z but feeding a political elite and giving Ruto a little more legitimacy.
This is Odinga giving way and taking part of a regime for his personal gain. Just like the handshake. Now its now process of a BBI, but there is a golden carrot in the end of the AUC chairperson role, which gives him a reason to participate and join hands with the Kenya Kwanza. That is benefiting Ruto and gives Odinga excuses to clean the hands of the President. Instead of actually trying to listen to the Gen Z and their grievances. His instead incorporating himself and his party within the realm of power. That’s not an action of a opposition or a minority. No, that’s a governing party and a direct ally of the government that does. This is why Odinga is insincere and trying to play both sides at the same time, which isn’t possible.
Odinga is trying to pull at trick and get of the hook. While his now part of the government by default and association. Also, his this friendly because it benefits him. It gives him acceptance and ability to seek office within the AU. Which gives him all the perspective and reason to betray any cause. Just so he can eat and get into prominence, yet again. Peace.











