This archive report was first published on 5 July 2020.
Kenya's second liberation hero, Koigi wa Wamwere, has been a vocal critic of the country's current political landscape. However, his recent comments on Raila Odinga's political stance have been met with criticism, with many arguing that they are out of touch with the current reality.
Wamwere's comments, published in the Saturday Nation on June 27, accused Odinga of abandoning the opposition cause and hobnobbing with President Uhuru Kenyatta on a path to dictatorship. However, this criticism has been dismissed by many, including Omondi Muluan, the immediate former Alego Usonga MP, who argues that Wamwere's views are no longer relevant to the current political landscape.
Kenya is still one of the most democratic countries in Africa, with unrivaled freedom of expression. The 'handshake' between Odinga and Kenyatta has brought unity across the country, which will enable reforms as the country looks ahead to an election that will not lead to balkanization on ethnic lines.
Wamwere's comments have been criticized for being overly critical of Odinga, with many arguing that the former PM is not the only opposition leader in Kenya. There are millions of Kenyans who can ascend to the position of opposition leader, and Odinga should not be seen as the only option.
Wamwere's views on Odinga have been criticized for being overly negative, with many arguing that the former PM is not responsible for all the challenges facing Kenya. The former PM is not a member of the Jubilee Party, yet he bears the brunt of false accusations of causing revolt within the party and influencing the defrocking of its House leadership.
