The End of an Era: Remembering Raila Odinga, “Baba” of Kenyan Politics
In a poignant moment for Kenya and beyond, the longtime opposition leader, Raila Odinga, passed away at the age of 80. His death, confirmed by party officials and Indian media, marks the close of a significant chapter in the nation’s political history. Known endearingly as “Baba” (Father), Odinga leaves behind a legacy interwoven with the tumultuous yet transformative journey of Kenyan democracy.
- Advertisement -
A Legacy of Resilience and Reform
For over three decades, Raila Odinga was at the heart of Kenya’s political landscape. His journey was not just one of personal ambition but also of collective struggle. Despite his five unsuccessful presidential campaigns, Odinga’s influence was undeniable, marked by his relentless advocacy for multiparty democracy and social equity. As supporters in his home region of western Kenya and former Nairobi constituency gathered with green branches—a poignant symbol of mourning—it was clear that Odinga’s impact transcended political victories and losses.
Born into the Luo ethnic group, Odinga’s story was one of resilience. After studying mechanical engineering in East Germany, he returned to Kenya with a vision for change. His career began in education and entrepreneurship, establishing a company dedicated to manufacturing liquid petroleum gas cylinders. However, it was in the political arena where Odinga’s mark was truly felt.
Challenging the Status Quo
Odinga’s political journey was fraught with challenges. He rose as a formidable opponent to President Daniel arap Moi’s autocratic regime, earning him multiple imprisonments in the 1980s. His determination saw him endure six years behind bars, where he was reportedly tortured, yet his spirit remained unbroken. In a testament to his adaptability, after a 1997 electoral defeat, Odinga allied with Moi, serving as energy minister, a strategic move that illustrated his pragmatic approach to politics.
Post-Moi, Odinga served as public works minister under President Mwai Kibaki, but it was the disputed 2007 election that truly tested Kenya’s fabric. The allegations of vote-rigging led to ethnic violence, a crucial moment in Kenya’s history that highlighted the pressing need for political reform. It was under Odinga’s leadership as Kibaki’s prime minister that a new constitution was adopted, embedding ideals of transparency and accountability into the nation’s governance.
A Trail of Elections: The Persistent Pursuit
The subsequent elections witnessed Odinga’s tenacious spirit. Defeated by Uhuru Kenyatta in 2013 and 2017, and William Ruto in 2022, Odinga’s campaigns were often shadowed by claims of electoral malpractice. Yet, his perseverance fostered a democratic ethos that inspired not just his constituents but resonated across Africa. His vision extended beyond Kenya, advocating for unity across ethnic divides and integration in the broader African political landscape.
Reflections on a Global Stage
Odinga’s narrative is emblematic of a wider global struggle for democracy and the complex, sometimes turbulent, path it entails. Much like Nelson Mandela in South Africa or Aung San Suu Kyi in Myanmar, Odinga’s story prompts reflection on the nature of leadership, emphasizing endurance over victory, and principle over compromise.
His life poses questions crucial for today’s global political discourse: How do we foster inclusive politics in ethnically diverse nations? What role do opposition leaders play in shaping democratic norms? Odinga’s legacy challenges leaders worldwide to cultivate integrity and courage in the face of adversity.
The Road Ahead for Kenya
As Kenya bids farewell to a leader whose life was as complex as the democratic ideals he championed, the nation stands on the precipice of defining its future. The spontaneous gatherings, marked by tears and branches, underscore the void left by Odinga’s departure. Yet, his spirit persists in the hearts of the many who revered him.
The task now falls upon a new generation of leaders to honor Odinga’s legacy by embracing genuine political reforms and nurturing unity within diversity. As the world watches, Kenya’s unfolding story will undoubtedly continue to draw lessons from the indomitable spirit of “Baba.” His life, a testament to resistance, resonates beyond Kenya’s borders, urging a continuous quest for justice and fairness on the global stage.
In remembering Raila Odinga, the world is reminded of the unyielding fight for democracy—a struggle that is as timeless as it is necessary.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
