Homa Bay:Leaders in Homa Bay County have voiced their dissatisfaction with the organization of the recent memorial ceremony for Raila Odinga, held at Migwena grounds. The criticism, particularly from leaders allied with the ODM Party, targets the event’s organizers for allegedly attempting to align the Luo community with the opposition.
According to Kenya News Agency, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, a close associate of the Odinga family, has led the criticism, accusing certain family members of trying to influence the political direction of the Luo community towards the opposition. Mbadi emphasized that those behind this move lack the authority to guide the community’s political stance and warned against misusing the respect the community holds for the Odinga family.
Speaking at a funeral service in Sangla Village, Suba South Constituency, Mbadi challenged those promoting different political terms to clarify their positions. He stated that the love the Luo community had for Raila cannot automatically transfer to others, regardless of familial ties, urging individuals to earn such support convincingly.
Mbadi also noted that leadership is not restricted to any single family, highlighting that many in Nyanza have the potential to produce future leaders. He forecast significant political changes in the region, emphasizing the community’s decision to support President William Ruto for a reciprocal power transfer to Nyanza after Ruto’s second term, enhancing his own presidential aspirations for 2032.
Conversely, Michael Kojo, a human rights advocate, defended the memorial organizers, asserting that leaders from all political backgrounds should have been welcomed to foster national unity. Kojo stressed that Raila Odinga represented the unity of all Kenyans, and his anniversary should reflect inclusivity, rather than being seen as exclusive to ODM leaders. Public Policy analyst Fred Omollo also expressed disappointment over the absence of individuals who had been mentored by Raila at the memorial event.
