NAIROBI, Kenya — Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has reiterated his lack of regret over his decision to work with President William Ruto’s administration under a broad-based government initiative.
Speaking at the funeral of former Rarieda MP Bob Jalang’o Nyanduga, Odinga stated that the partnership was a necessary measure for the nation’s well-being.
Odinga explained that at the time the decision was made, the country was facing the threat of collapse due to widespread anti-government protests.
“It was necessary to take emergency measures to ensure that we do not get into the precipice. It was necessary to make compromises for the interests of the country. This is what we did and we do not regret that action,” he stated.
The ODM leader also addressed the persistent issue of corruption, which he warned continues to impede national development and effective governance. He emphasized the need for a concerted effort to combat it, adding, “You cannot develop unless you tame this animal called corruption. It exists in almost every aspect of our lives today. We need to fight it in all our spheres.”
Siaya Governor James Orengo, in his remarks, assured the public that Odinga’s commitment to reform and change remains steadfast, despite his current cooperation with the government.
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“I know that my party leader is being guided by ideological foundations of reform and change and at every sitting he never forgets that he is a messenger of the people of Kenya,” Orengo noted.
Rarieda MP Otiende Amolo affirmed that ODM’s involvement in the broad-based government does not compromise its role in holding the executive accountable.
He asserted that as the minority party in the National Assembly, they will continue to provide oversight. Other dignitaries present at the burial, including Co-operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya and MPs Dr. James Nyikal and Dr. Christine Ombaka, echoed the sentiment that ODM remains a strong and unified party despite its collaboration with the government.
