The determined and the most influential Kenya’s opposition leader took it to stage to be sworn in as the “People’s president” in 2018. This happened after Raila Amollo Ondinga a.k.a Agwambo, BaBa, Rao, refused to concede defeat in 2017 presidential elections.
The politician who is now a close friend to president Uhuru Kenyatta took the Oath which was presided over by Miguna Miguna currently exiled in Canada.
However, Raila’s close allies and partners in opposition were missing at the scene citing security threats from the jubilee government. Raila’s family was also missing when the Politician took the oath.
But why would family go missing on that day?
Oburu Odinga, the elder brother to Raila Amollo Ondiga on Sunday, revealed that Raila’s family opposed his controversial swearing-in as the “People’s president” in 2018.
Speaking at the 25th Memorial of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga at ACK St Stephen Cathedral in Kisumu, Oburu disclosed that his brother surprised the family when he decided to take the oath.
He revealed that they were reluctant and feared for possible consequence since the government issued a warning that anyone who participated in the ceremony would be charged with treason, and therefore they could not attend the controversial event.
However, he praised Raila for his bravery and act of courage stating that he was ready to die for the ideals in which he stood for.
Oburu added that Raila was the only politician in Kenya who could Match his father’s bold and courageous leadership style.
“My father was a daring politician. This act of bravery was inherited by Raila from our late father,” he declared.
The ceremony was packed with various leaders including James Orengo who gave a speech saying that the reason Jaramogi called for the release of Jomo Kenyatta was because he stood for fairness in the distribution of the national cake and equal treatment of every citizen.
Maseno South ACK Diocese Bishop Charles Onginjo solidly called for more commitment to strengthening the new-found unity among opposition leaders and the ruling coalition as a way of honouring the late Jaramogi and realizing his dream for the country.