Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Ida Odinga, has said the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga had no permanent enemies, describing his political opponents as temporary.
Ida said Raila maintained relationships with people who stood with him politically, those who competed against him and others who strongly disagreed with him.
She said understanding Kenya’s politics also meant understanding Raila, noting that former political opponents would eventually come together.
“There are people who stood with Raila for many years; there are people who competed against him. Some people disagreed very strongly with him, and they are all friends. Former opponents, knowing Kenya politics, probably know Raila well because in the end they all come together and you are all welcome; that is Raila for you,” Ida said.
Ida thanked President William Ruto for attending the handover and dedication ceremony of Raila’s mausoleum and honouring the former Prime Minister and his family.
“President William Ruto, thanks for being here and honouring Raila and our family with your presence,” she said.
She recalled Ruto and Raila’s long political history, noting that although the two competed fiercely, they also found moments to work together when they believed the country required it.
“You and Raila competed fiercely in politics, but there were also moments when you found a way to speak to work together and when you believed the country required it,” she said.
Ida also recalled the period following the 2007 General Election, when Ruto and Raila were on the same political side.
“I remember that after the elections of 2007, you defended him fiercely and strongly. Some people might think that you just started with the handshake, but you started a long time ago,” she said.
Ida said Raila’s political relationships ultimately transcended political differences, adding that she did not view those who opposed him as permanent enemies.
“I don’t see enemies, just as I have told you that Raila had no enemies; his enemies were temporary and before you know it they were friends,” she said.
She also thanked Kenyans for standing with the family following Raila’s death.
Ida spoke on Wednesday during the handover and dedication of Raila Odinga’s mausoleum in Bondo, Siaya county.
The ceremony was presided over by Ruto.