This archive report was first published on 5 November 2019.
On January 30th, 2018, Raila Odinga took a bold step by being sworn in as the People's President, a move that would change the course of Kenya's history. But what led to this decision, and how did it ultimately save NASA supporters?
According to sources, one of the key reasons was the neutralization of die-hard Jubilee supporters. Raila Odinga confirmed that William Ruto had been 'castrated' and was no longer a threat. This move would later be seen as a masterstroke, as it paved the way for dialogue with President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Another reason was the end of the onslaught against NASA supporters and Raila Odinga's base. The People's President himself intervened behind the scenes to stop the violence, ensuring that his supporters were safe. He also donated to the funerals of victims of the 2017 election violence, a gesture that would be remembered for years to come.
The NASA Coalition was weakened by flip-flopping principals, but Raila Odinga's decision to be sworn in as the People's President gave him the leverage he needed to negotiate with President Uhuru Kenyatta. The swearing-in ceremony, which was snubbed by the three flip-flopping principals, marked a turning point in the country's history.
Close sources revealed that the self-interests of the NASA principals were now at play, with some pushing Raila Odinga to retire and name Kalonzo as his successor. However, Raila Odinga remained resolute, choosing to prioritize the interests of the people over those of his principals.
The diplomatic community and the world had turned their backs on Kenya, pressuring the government to take strong action against the people. However, Raila Odinga's decision to open dialogue with President Uhuru Kenyatta marked a new chapter in the country's history, one that would be marked by peace and reconciliation.
As the battle between NASA and Jubilee raged on, it became clear that military answers to political problems alone wouldn't work. The heart of many violent conflicts lies in issues of inequality, injustice, and exclusion, and Raila Odinga's decision to open dialogue with President Uhuru Kenyatta marked a recognition of this reality.
President Odinga has never killed anybody and will not begin now in order to attain power. He has risked his life many times over the years, including when his car was shot at severally on his return from the US in November, and when he was attacked again by security forces at Jacaranda grounds a week later.
On January 30th, 2018, when all his comrades ran away from him, Raila Odinga showed his supporters that he would die for them. He has never left his people, and his decision to open dialogue with President Uhuru Kenyatta marked a new era of peace and reconciliation in Kenya.
