Letter To Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga

Dear His Excellency Raila Amolo Odinga,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. My purpose in writing to you is driven by a deep concern for the future of our beloved Kenya. As a steadfast supporter of yours since 1997, I have witnessed the highs and lows of your political journey, always holding onto the hope that your vision for a better Kenya would be realized.

Reflecting on the events of 2007, when my uncle and I anxiously counted your votes and the subsequent acceptance of the Prime Minister position for the sake of national unity, I felt a sense of pride in your statesmanlike nature. The years that followed, marked by challenges and controversies, further demonstrated your commitment to the people of Kenya.

The handshake in 2018, though initially disheartening to many of your supporters, was a demonstration of your dedication to fostering peace and unity for the greater good of our nation. However, recent developments, specifically your announcement of interest in the African Union Chair position, have left me and countless others deeply saddened.

In these critical times for our country, with a government that appears less pro-people, Kenya needs a leader of your caliber to apply pressure and expose what is wrong. Your role as a check and balance on the current regime is vital, considering the challenges we face as a nation. Your past efforts in exposing scandals and addressing electoral malpractices have instilled hope in many.

The recent endorsements from unexpected quarters, including UDA, raise concerns about the motivations behind your bid for the AU Chair position. It is disconcerting to witness figures like Ruto, who contested against you, seemingly supporting your candidacy. This has led me to believe that a trap has been set, aiming to remove you from the Kenyan political scene and leave the field open for maneuvers that may not be in the best interest of our nation.

Your declaration in 2022 that you would make the stealing of elections an expensive business is a goal yet to be fully realized. Kenya needs you now more than ever to champion electoral integrity, transparency, and good governance. The recent ODM registration drive had brought a renewed sense of hope, and it is disheartening to witness the possibility of this momentum being disrupted.

As a statesman, your endorsement of Jakaya Kikwete for the AU Chair position would not only be strategic but also in the best interest of Kenya. This move could potentially confuse those who seek to exploit the situation and ensure that Kenya remains a priority for you.

Baba, Kenya is at a crossroads, and your presence in the political space is crucial for our collective future. Your legacy is too valuable to be tarnished by entanglement with regimes that may not have the best interests of the people at heart. The current recalibration happening in Africa should inspire us to ensure that Kenya becomes a beacon of progress, justice, and independence.

In conclusion, I respectfully urge you to reconsider your bid for the AU Chair position. Kenya needs you now, not just as a leader but as a symbol of hope and resilience. Your decision to step back from this bid will safeguard your legacy and allow you to continue being the guiding force that our nation requires in these challenging times.

With the utmost respect and unwavering support,

David Kedode