The late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s legacy has come under renewed discussion after lawyer Willis Otieno criticized past remarks by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah, who in 2023 described Raila as the “chief architect of anarchy.”
Otieno’s statement emphasizes the enduring influence and moral authority of the opposition leader, who passed away weeks ago.
Ichungwah’s post accused Raila of promoting political violence and unrest in pursuit of power, asserting that such tactics were uniquely his.
The comments resurfaced after Raila’s death, reigniting debates on his political contributions and controversies.
Otieno rejected Ichungwah’s portrayal, noting that critics misunderstood Raila’s advocacy for justice and democratic reforms.
“When Raila screamed for justice, they mocked him. When he buried his comrades, they called it peace. When he marched for freedom, they branded him a chaos merchant,” Otieno wrote on X.
He added that Raila’s opponents feared his courage and moral weight, and now seek to celebrate him posthumously.
Raila Odinga’s career spanned decades, from fighting for multiparty democracy in the 1990s to serving in multiple high-profile political roles.
He played a central role in landmark events such as the 2007–2008 post-election mediation and the 2010 constitutional reform process.
His political life was marked by both achievements and contentious rivalries, including repeated presidential campaigns that polarized public opinion.
Otieno’s comments highlight broader questions about how political leaders are remembered and how past criticisms are weighed against public service.