Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga is now asserting that her elder brother, Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party, plays an irreplaceable political role in Nyanza.
During a speech at Mirogi Boys High School in Ndhiwa Constituency, Homa Bay County, on Thursday, Ruth emphasized the political journey of the former prime minister, suggesting that currently, no other politician from the region possesses the qualities necessary to assume the presidency of Kenya.
She stated,
“No one else from this region can become president besides Raila. I’ve thoroughly assessed whether anyone possesses his qualities, and I have not found anyone.” This statement was reported by the Nation.
Ruth went on to argue that no one from the Lake Region could step into Raila’s shoes and successfully run for president.
She cited the recent Africa Climate Summit (ACS) 2023 as an example, where Raila was received by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and given the privilege of sitting alongside Heads of State.
She contended that only a leader of Raila’s caliber could receive such respect.
Enduring Influence
“Raila is the only individual who, despite not holding the presidency, was allowed to use a door reserved for high-profile dignitaries and sit alongside Heads of State. This clearly indicates his enduring influence,” she declared.
The Woman Representative encouraged aspiring leaders in the region to follow in Raila’s footsteps, emphasizing that only he possesses the ability to bring liberation to the people of the Lake Region and the entire country.
Ruth added, “Raila should serve as the role model for our leaders, and those supporting him should continue to do so.”
These remarks come amid ongoing calls by some politicians for Raila Odinga to retire from politics and make way for other leaders to emerge in the political arena.
Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga, who had previously suggested that National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi could be Raila’s potential successor, recently retracted his statement, clarifying that he lacked the authority to make such a declaration.
He noted that Raila, his younger brother, remains actively engaged in politics and is still in control.
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