Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has shed light on why she believes it is incredibly difficult to be Raila Amollo Odinga, Kenya’s long-serving opposition leader. Speaking during an interview on Spice FM, Millie described Raila as one of the strongest politicians in the country, highlighting the paradox he faces in his political journey.
According to Millie, Raila is often criticized regardless of the decisions he makes. She pointed out that despite contesting and losing elections multiple times, many Kenyans still hold him responsible when things go wrong. Even his recent unsuccessful bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship was met with celebration from some quarters, demonstrating the polarized views about his leadership.
“If there is one politician that I give marks to, it is Raila Amollo Odinga. It’s very difficult to be him. You are damned if you do, damned if you don’t,” Millie remarked. “If he doesn’t support the government, he is blamed; if he supports the government, he is blamed. When he stays home, he is told to go to Bondo, and when he does, he is blamed when things go south. Now he sought the AU chairmanship, which has nothing to do with us, he loses, and people are cheering.”
Her remarks come amid speculation that Raila may be warming up to President William Ruto’s administration. However, Millie clarified that the current engagement between the government and the opposition is merely a working arrangement to improve governance rather than an alliance.
“We are cooperating to make the country work,” she stated, emphasizing that ODM is still firmly an opposition party. She further noted that Raila is currently consulting party members across the country before making any significant political moves.
Regarding rumors of a coalition between ODM and Kenya Kwanza, Millie stated that such speculations are inevitable in politics. However, she reiterated that any decision taken by ODM would align with constitutional provisions and the party’s broader strategy.
As Kenya’s political landscape continues to evolve, Raila Odinga remains at the center of national discourse, navigating a challenging path where he is both revered and criticized in equal measure.
