NAIROBI, Kenya- Two days after signing a deal with President William Ruto, ODM leader Raila Odinga faced a lukewarm reception in Kisii County, a region traditionally considered part of his stronghold.
The reception has fueled speculation that a section of his supporters is discontent with the agreement, signaling possible cracks in his political base.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was made public at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Friday, outlined a framework for cooperation between Odinga and Ruto.
However, with Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship now off the table, questions have emerged about the true nature of the deal.
While the agreement emphasized national unity, reconciliation, and collaboration on key policy issues, many of Odinga’s supporters remain skeptical.
Among the key agreements reached between the two leaders are the full implementation of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, creating the position of Prime Minister and Opposition, as well as addressing youth unemployment, and the implementation of the two-third gender rule.
Secondly, Ruto and Raila also agreed to enhance inclusivity among Kenyans regardless of their religion and political affiliations. According to the leaders, enhancing inclusivity would improve opportunities for all Kenyans, especially public appointments.
The two leaders also signed an agreement to protect and promote the rule of law and uphold constitutionalism.
Further, in the deal, the government also committed to exercising the right to peaceful assembly, and compensation of all pending claims of rights victims.
During his visit to Kisii to attend a football match at Gusii stadium, Odinga was met with an uncharacteristically hostile crowd.
While he received cheers from some quarters, sections of the audience started chanting Raila Must Go, a stark contrast to the enthusiastic receptions he has enjoyed in the past.
Some youths openly expressed their dissatisfaction, accusing him of carrying the burdens of Ruto’s two-year-old administration, including unpopular policies.
A significant number of young people in Kisii, like elsewhere in the country, have been vocal in their opposition to Ruto’s administration, particularly following the Gen Z-led protests last year against oppressive government policies.
Many of these youths now feel that Odinga, once seen as their champion, has switched sides.
They accuse him of leveraging their resistance for political gain, only to make a deal with the very administration they were protesting against.
“He has betrayed us,” said 25-year-old Ken Omwansa, a boda boda rider in Kisii town. “We feel used.”
Political analysts argue that while Odinga’s agreement with Ruto is strategic, it carries significant risks.
The ODM leader has built his career as an opposition figure who fights for the people.
Aligning with the government, especially after the collapse of his AUC bid, could alienate sections of his base that expect him to remain steadfast in holding the government accountable.
However, Odinga’s allies have downplayed the cold reception, insisting that the deal with Ruto is in the best interest of the country.
“Baba has not abandoned his people. He is focused on a bigger mission that will elevate.
Odinga has at some point had a working agreement with all Presidents other than the founding father Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.
