Karachuonyo, Homa Bay County – August 8, 2025
ODM party leader Raila Odinga has staunchly defended his cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration, stating that the move was crucial in averting Kenya’s slide into chaos and state failure.
Speaking during the burial of veteran politician and women’s rights champion Phoebe Asiyo in Karachuonyo on Friday, Odinga dismissed critics of his decision, arguing that Kenya was on the verge of disintegration akin to what has been witnessed in Somalia, Sudan, Libya, and Egypt.
“There was a very big probability of Kenya deteriorating into a failed state like Somalia or Sudan,” said Raila. “People who don’t understand history talk loosely. They don’t know what happened in Libya or Egypt, or why there is a military regime there today.”
The former Prime Minister emphasized that the decision to back a broad-based government was a strategic and sacrificial act done in the best interests of national peace and stability.
“We sacrificed so that there could be peace in this country. I do not regret what we did,” he affirmed. “If anybody has an alternative solution to the crisis we faced, let them present it.”
Raila said the bipartisan approach has ensured political calm and prevented the country from spiraling into anarchy.
Odinga, who has long championed social justice, outlined a set of principles necessary for the country’s progress. He called for respect for human rights, economic relief for ordinary Kenyans, and reforms in law enforcement conduct.
“We must ensure people are protected, have food, jobs, and access to education. The cost of living must come down,” he said.
He was also categorical about the role of the police, stressing that they must operate under the rule of law.
“The police are servants of the people—not their masters. If I commit an offense, arrest me and take me to court. But don’t shoot me. Don’t shoot to kill or maim.”
Raila’s remarks come amid ongoing national discussions on inclusivity in governance and the future of Kenya’s democracy. While some critics accuse him of betraying the opposition cause, his allies argue that Raila’s pragmatism has helped cool political temperatures and foster national cohesion.
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