Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has reaffirmed that he has no regrets about his decision to collaborate with President William Ruto under the broad-based government initiative.
Speaking during the burial of former Rarieda MP Bob Jalang’o Nyanduga at Obaga Primary School grounds, Mr. Odinga emphasized that the ODM party’s choice to work with the Kenya Kwanza administration was made in the best interest of the nation.
He said that at the time they made that decision, Kenya was teetering on the edge of collapse, referring to the widespread anti-government protests that had threatened to plunge the country into chaos.
“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 noted.
Mr. Odinga also voiced concern over the rampant corruption affecting nearly every sector, warning that it continues to hinder development and good governance.
He added that they want to see proper leadership in this country, but corruption is deeply entrenched adding therefore that this must be addressed.
“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,” he noted.
On his part, Siaya Governor James Orengo assured citizens that Mr. Odinga remains committed to the ideals of reform and change, regardless of his current cooperation with the government.
He asserted that Mr. Odinga will never abandon the people or the principles that have guided him throughout his political journey.
“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 echoed his sentiments, emphasizing that ODM’s participation in the broad-based government does not compromise its oversight role.
He stated that they are still the minority in the National Assembly, and we will therefore continue to hold the executive accountable.
Other dignitaries present at the burial included Co-operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, Seme MP Dr. James Nyikal, and Siaya County MP Dr. Christine Ombaka among others who reiterated that despite their involvement in the broad-based government, ODM remains a strong and united party.
