Roots Party leader George Wajackoya has called on former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to broaden his political consultations beyond his Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party as he charts his next move following his failed bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Speaking during an interview with Spice FM on Tuesday morning, Wajackoya emphasized the need for inclusivity in Raila’s decision-making process, cautioning against restricting discussions to ODM members alone.
“Consult other political leaders don’t assume that you and ODM know it all,” Wajackoya stated. “If you want to lead this country, and as my friend whom I speak to daily, listen to other leaders.”
His remarks come amid Raila’s ongoing engagements with ODM officials and county delegates as he deliberates on his next political move. The veteran opposition leader recently indicated that he will soon make a public announcement regarding his political future.
Wajackoya further advised Raila to seek counsel from leaders outside his party, suggesting figures such as Eugene Wamalwa and Kalonzo Musyoka should be part of his discussions. He warned against rushing into alliances with the government without thorough deliberations and input from a broad spectrum of political voices.
“Let Raila consult Eugene Wamalwa, Kalonzo Musyoka, and myself. Then we can sit down, compare notes, and come up with a solution,” Wajackoya said.
Additionally, Wajackoya voiced concerns over the Nadco report, which emerged from post-2022 election negotiations between Kenya Kwanza and the opposition. He insisted that the report’s constitutional implications should be carefully examined before implementation.
“I will not support it unless I understand the constitutional implications of the Nadco report,” he asserted, calling for broader consultations within the political landscape.
During the interview, Wajackoya also lamented being sidelined by mainstream political figures, attributing it to his unfiltered approach.
“Other political parties don’t want to work with me because they think I’m outdated and too rhetorical. But I tell them the truth they don’t want to hear,” he said.
As Raila prepares to make his next move, Wajackoya’s remarks underscore the broader need for unity and inclusive dialogue within Kenya’s political landscape.