Kisumu, Kenya – Chants of “Ruto Must Go!” echoed through the streets of Kisumu on Saturday evening, as residents expressed their frustration following Raila Odinga’s loss in the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship race. The opposition leader’s failed bid has sparked outrage among his supporters, who are now calling for his return to local politics to continue the fight against what they describe as government oppression.
Raila Odinga, a veteran politician and leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), had been widely seen as a frontrunner in the race for the AUC chairmanship. However, his loss has left many of his supporters disillusioned, with some blaming President William Ruto for allegedly misleading Raila into the unsuccessful campaign.
Residents Blame Ruto for Raila’s Loss
In the aftermath of the announcement, Kisumu residents took to the streets, accusing President Ruto of sabotaging Raila’s chances. Many believe that Ruto, who publicly endorsed Raila’s candidacy, did not do enough to rally regional support for the opposition leader.
“Ruto played Raila. He knew this was a trap, but he let him walk into it anyway,” said John Otieno, a local trader in Kisumu. “Now, we need Raila back home to fight for us. The government is oppressing us, and we have no one to defend us.”
The sentiment was echoed by other residents, who feel that Raila’s focus on the AUC chairmanship distracted him from his role as the voice of the opposition. “Raila is our defender. He should never have left us to chase a continental position,” said Mary Atieno, a mother of three. “We need him here to fight for our rights and protect us from this government.”
Calls for Raila to Return Home
As the protests continued late into the night, calls for Raila to return to Kenya and refocus on local politics grew louder. Many of his supporters believe that his absence has left a void in the opposition, allowing the government to implement policies that they say are detrimental to ordinary Kenyans.
“Raila must come back and lead us again. We are suffering under this government, and we need him to fight for us,” said Peter Okoth, a university student who joined the protests. “The AU job was not for him. His place is here, with the people.”
Raila’s loss has also reignited debates about his political future. While some believe that he should retire from active politics, others argue that he still has a critical role to play in shaping Kenya’s future.
Political Analysts Weigh In
Political analysts have described Raila’s loss as a significant blow to his legacy, but they also see it as an opportunity for him to refocus on local issues. “Raila’s bid for the AUC chairmanship was a gamble, and it didn’t pay off,” said Dr. Jane Muthoni, a political analyst based in Nairobi. “However, this could be a blessing in disguise. His supporters want him back, and there’s still a lot he can achieve in Kenyan politics.”
Dr. Muthoni also noted that Raila’s return could galvanize the opposition, which has been struggling to maintain unity in his absence. “Raila is a unifying figure in the opposition. His return could breathe new life into the movement and provide a much-needed check on the government,” she added.
What Next for Raila and Kenya?
As the dust settles on Raila’s AUC loss, all eyes are now on his next move. Will he heed the calls of his supporters and return to local politics, or will he pursue other international roles?
For now, the people of Kisumu have made their position clear. They want Raila back, and they want him to continue the fight for justice and equality in Kenya.
“Raila is our hero. He has fought for us before, and we know he can do it again,” said James Ochieng, a local activist. “We don’t need him in Addis Ababa. We need him here, in Kenya, fighting for us.”
As the chants of “Ruto Must Go!” continue to ring out across Kisumu, one thing is clear: the political landscape in Kenya is as volatile as ever, and Raila Odinga remains a central figure in the nation’s ongoing struggle for democracy and justice.
