Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is facing intense backlash from Kenyans online after comments he made seemingly defending police actions during the recent Nane Nane demonstrations.
The protests, which saw numerous Kenyans, including journalists, subjected to police brutality, have sparked a national outcry.
Kenyans, led by activist Kasmuel Mac Oure, took to social media to criticize Raila for suggesting that the police were “tempted” to commit crimes during the protests.
This remark has been interpreted by many as an attempt to downplay the severity of the police’s actions.
ODM party leader Hon. RaIla Odinga speaks during a past event
A section of Kenyans accused Raila of hypocrisy, pointing out that his ODM party has been deeply embedded in President William Ruto’s government, following the appointment of his close allies to the cabinet.
Despite the backlash, Raila issued a statement on Saturday condemning the police brutality witnessed during the Nane Nane protests. He expressed deep concern over the excessive use of force by the police on peaceful demonstrators and journalists, including CNN’s Larry Madowo.
“It is with deep concern that I learned of the arbitrary arrests, detentions, and excessive use of force by the police, which led to the harassment of peaceful protesters and journalists,” Raila stated.
Kasmuel McOure speaks during June 25th demos. Photo: The Star
He called on law enforcement agencies to respect the constitutional rights of all Kenyans and urged for the immediate release of those unjustly detained.
Raila’s remarks come at a time when his political alignment is under scrutiny. Once hailed as the father of Kenyan democracy, his recent moves have left many questioning his loyalty to the people.
The appointment of his allies—Hassan Ali Joho, John Mbadi, Opiyo Wandayi, and Wycliffe Oparanya—to key cabinet positions has further complicated his position, with critics accusing him of trying to clean his image while remaining closely tied to the current administration.
