The conspicuous silence of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga on the detention of Ugandan pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine has left many wondering.
In the past, Raila has been quick to address cases of human rights violations, calling the press and railing against those behind alleged human rights violations.
Wine was arraigned in a civilian court Thursday after being released by a military court and charged with treason, a capital offence.
Outrage has been expressed from various parts of the world at what many see as trumped-up charges against the crooner.
Raila, an influential figure, has yet to say a word.
Perhaps the starting point in seeking to know why Raila has not said anything is to understand the context within which he is operating.
Having dramatically shook hands with his political adversary President Uhuru Kenyatta, the veteran opposition leader has been slow to respond to cases of human rights violations.
President Museveni is a close Uhuru ally and a shot from Raila at the Ugandan president over Wine's case would certainly touch off tensions between Kenya and Uganda.
It would also endanger progress made thanks to the handshake.
Now that the Ugandan courts have taken up the matter, Raila might have decided to hold back and see what verdict they deliver.
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