NAIROBI, Kenya- A cold reception for Raila Odinga in Kisii has sparked debate over shifting political loyalties in Kenya, with prominent lawyer Willis Otieno declaring the “end of political titans” who have dominated the country’s leadership for decades.
Otieno, who represented Odinga in his 2022 Supreme Court petition challenging President William Ruto’s election victory, took to social media to express his view that the old political order is crumbling.
“The era of so-called political titans is collapsing under the weight of its own arrogance and deceit. The same old faces who have looted, manipulated, and played tribal chess with the people’s lives are finally running out of ground to stand on,” he posted on X.
The era of so-called political titans is collapsing under the weight of its own arrogance and deceit. The same old faces who have looted, manipulated, and played tribal chess with the people’s lives are finally running out of ground to stand on. Their fear is evident , they see…
His remarks came just two days after Odinga signed a cooperation deal with President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), pledging to among other things promote devolution and fight corruption.
The agreement, however, has faced backlash, with critics questioning its sincerity.
During Odinga’s visit to Kisii, a region historically considered a stronghold for his Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), sections of the youth chanted “Raila Must Go,” signaling dissatisfaction with his latest political move.
While Odinga’s allies downplayed the incident, arguing it was staged by opponents, the event has fueled conversations about whether Kenya’s political landscape is undergoing a fundamental shift.
For decades, Odinga has been at the forefront of Kenya’s opposition politics, often positioning himself as the champion of democracy and good governance.
However, his recent engagement with the Ruto administration has raised concerns among his supporters, some of whom feel betrayed.
It is however not the first time he is engaging with the government. Other than the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Odinga has had a form of working engagement with all other Presidents.
The backlash in Kisii is not an isolated case.
Across the country, frustration is growing over a political class that many believe has prioritized self-interest over public service.
As more young Kenyans demand accountability, traditional power structures face increasing scrutiny.
Political analysts say the Kisii incident is a reflection of broader discontent.
“Kenya’s political landscape is evolving, and old strategies no longer resonate with a more informed and impatient electorate,” said political commentator Dr. Mark Wafula.
