Raila Odinga: The symbol and symptom of Kenya’s political tragedy
Key Takeaways
- Raila Odinga, the long-reigning Kenyan opposition leader, has died at the age of 80.
- He is characterized as a complex figure, both an 'Enigma' and the personification of Kenya’s political tragedy.
- Odinga was a key crusader for freedom, multiparty democracy, and constitutional reform, enduring imprisonment for his beliefs.
- His career was marred by compromises and 'handshakes' with rivals, leading to accusations of hypocrisy and alienating younger generations.
- Despite his influence, his political journey included being allegedly robbed of the presidency and being associated with post-election violence and corruption scandals.
Raila Odinga, the influential 80-year-old Kenyan opposition leader, has passed away, prompting reflection on his complex political career, often termed the 'Enigma of Kenyan politics.' Odinga spent decades as a crusader for freedom and better governance, enduring imprisonment and torture, yet his path to high office was paved with compromises and 'handshakes' that ultimately led to him being viewed by some as part of the problem. He was central to major national struggles, including the fight for multiparty democracy and a new constitution, and held immense sway over his supporters, though he was repeatedly frustrated in his bids for the presidency. Despite his legendary contributions, the article highlights startling bouts of hypocrisy, such as demanding treason charges against former comrades after aligning with the Moi dictatorship, and his family's later implication in a maize subsidy scam. The infamous 2018 handshake with President Kenyatta, following violent post-election repression, is cited as a defining moment that further complicated his legacy, illustrating how power in Kenya corrupts even its greatest reformers.
