Raila Odinga, the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), was left surprised during his visit to Wajir County when a resident presented him with a rare document—his 1997 presidential manifesto.
The man, identified only as Ibrahim, had kept the manifesto safe for 28 years.
ODM shared the moment on their official X account, showing Raila holding the old document with a smile. “PL @RailaOdinga displays his manifesto for the 1997 general election in which he vied for the presidency on an NDP party ticket.
This document was unleashed by Mr. Ibrahim, a resident of Wajir and great supporter of Baba, who has kept it for all the years,” the party posted.
In 1997, Raila ran for president under the National Development Party (NDP). His campaign focused on job creation, economic recovery, and fighting corruption.
“Unemployment has become national enemy number one,” the manifesto read.
“Despite living in a country of huge potential, Kenyans are caught in a poverty trap. We continue to be held back by corruption and chronic underinvestment.”
Raila also promised to improve Kenya’s economy by supporting small businesses and ensuring food security.
His plan included better roads, electricity, telephone access, and irrigation services for farmers.
Raila, who was in Wajir for political consultations, was accompanied by Suna East MP Junet Mohamed and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
The governor, who is also the Chairperson of the Council of Governors, welcomed Raila and praised his dedication to engaging with grassroots leaders.
“Welcomed the Right Honorable Raila Odinga to Wajir County as he engaged with the grassroots in his consultative mission,” Governor Abdullahi posted on X.
The moment with Ibrahim showed how deeply some Kenyans still believe in Raila’s leadership. Even after almost three decades, his ideas from 1997 remain relevant.
Raila’s visit to Wajir is part of his ongoing consultations ahead of a major political announcement.
Many are waiting to hear his next move in the ever-changing political landscape.
For Ibrahim, keeping the manifesto for all these years was a way to show his loyalty. As he handed it over, he told Raila, “Hii ni historia tupu!” (This is pure history!).
By Nairobi