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Raila Odinga’s Democratic Legacy Faces a Year of Reflection
By Drooid · · How we work
One Year After Odinga’s Death: Core Reflections
Kenya marks the first anniversary of former prime minister Raila Odinga’s death. Across the country, citizens and politicians debate whether the democratic principles he championed—multiparty politics, constitutionalism and the rule of law—can endure. Younger Kenyans, such as 20-year-old Beatrice Chebet, say his vision of a peaceful, democratic Kenya must be carried forward, while others question the compromises he made through high-profile “handshakes” with rival leaders.
Background: Opposition, Power-Sharing and Institutional Reform
Odinga emerged from decades of opposition, detentions and the disputed 2007 presidential election, which sparked post-election violence that killed more than 1,100 people and displaced hundreds of thousands. International mediation led by former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan produced a power-sharing agreement that installed Odinga as prime minister in a coalition with President Mwai Kibaki. The accord set a reform agenda that culminated in Kenya’s 2010 constitution, introducing devolved government and a range of institutional changes.
Official Statements & Responses
Edwin Sifuna, a potential 2027 presidential candidate and longtime ODM member, warned that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) risks losing its core support if it drifts from the people-focused ideals Odinga promoted. Meanwhile, Odinga’s daughter Winnie Odinga announced her intention to run for Nairobi County Senator in the 2027 elections, signaling an effort to keep the Odinga name active in national politics.
Criticism & Opposition
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua sharply criticized Odinga’s reconciliation strategy, calling the “handshake” process “nonsense” and arguing it has eroded Kenya’s democracy by weakening opposition capacity to hold the government accountable.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We run the risk of losing our core support, people who believed in the ideals of ODM, because we were always the party of the people,” — Edwin Sifuna, a potential presidential candidate in the 2027 election.