People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has disclosed that she confronted ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga in July following the deadly Saba Saba protests. Speaking during a televised interview on Sunday, Karua said she called Raila personally to question his silence after reports of young protesters being killed during demonstrations.
Karua stated that the phone call happened shortly after the nationwide protests where several youths lost their lives opposing government policies. She expressed disappointment that Raila, once a champion of human rights, had chosen to cooperate with President William Ruto’s administration despite the violent crackdown.
According to Karua, she was shocked by Raila’s apparent detachment from the plight of ordinary citizens. She told him that his silence on the killings had betrayed the ideals he had long stood for.
The former Justice Minister revealed that she reminded Raila of his influence, insisting that his continued partnership with Ruto had weakened the opposition. She said she asked him whether he was aware that his withdrawal from the government would cause political instability due to his large following.
Karua further claimed she urged Raila to reconsider his alliance with Ruto, accusing the president of ordering the use of excessive force on peaceful protesters. She lamented that the opposition’s once-powerful voice had been reduced to silence under the current political arrangement.
The veteran politician also suggested that Raila’s era as the face of opposition politics had come to an end. She said if Raila wished to return to the opposition, he should back new leaders instead of attempting a political comeback.
Her bold remarks have triggered mixed reactions, with some Kenyans applauding her courage and others calling for reconciliation. Many citizens have urged both leaders to prioritize unity and policy-based politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
By Nairobi