To many, Judas Iscariot is considered the world’s biggest betrayer for selling Jesus Christ for 30 silver coins. However, for Kenyans at the moment, the biggest betrayer is Raila Odinga. Once revered as a pillar of democracy and a champion of good governance in Kenya, Raila Odinga has left the nation divided following his recent stance on the Gen Z protests.
Kenyans had expected the opposition leader to join them in opposing President Ruto’s government, which they see as incompetent. Historically, Raila has been a vocal critic of President Ruto since his assumption of office in 2022. However, instead of supporting the Gen Z protests and calling for Ruto’s resignation, Raila has had a change of heart. He now urges Kenyans not to advocate for Ruto’s resignation but to engage in dialogue with the president to find a solution to the current political unrest.
Must read: Chuma chako kimotoni: Pastor Nganga delivers tough warning to president ruto
His recent statement indicates a shift away from the opinions of many Kenyans, leading to significant political division. While some support his call for dialogue, many accuse him of being a political fraud. The Gen Z protesters, in particular, want President Ruto out of office and do not want Raila to interfere, especially since he did not initiate these protests. Raila, on the other hand, believes that continued protests could drive the nation into anarchy, an irony considering his history of staging protests against various regimes without such concerns.
The divide between Raila and the nation is evident, even within his own political party. Several of his close allies have shown differing stances on his recent remarks. For instance, his former deputy presidential aspirant, Martha Karua, posted a photo with other Azimio leaders, notably without Raila’s presence. The caption, “Definately not boarding,” was seen as a declaration of her opposition to Raila’s stance on Ruto’s leadership.
Read also: How Raila Odinga evaded Ruto Arrest Plan
The photo, which included Jeremiah Kioni, Eugene Wamalwa, Charity Ngilu, Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, and Peter Munya, came at a critical time. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka had been roughed up by goons at the Jaramogi Oginga Foundation shortly after Raila’s press address. Many speculated that the goons were paid to interrupt Kalonzo due to his opposition to the dialogue between Raila and President Ruto.
Raila Odinga’s leadership appears increasingly intolerant of dissent within his team. The interruption of Kalonzo’s speech is believed by some to be due to his differing opinion from Raila’s. Martha Karua’s photo with other Azimio leaders, absent Raila, raises questions about whether a new political party might be forming to rival both Raila and President Ruto’s proposed government of national unity.
Facebook Comments