Why does Raila get whatever he wants apart from the presidency?. [Photo/limkokwing.net]The “self-proclaimed” people’s president, outstanding lieutenant for the second Kenyan liberation, the foundation of the super party Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the force behind the most celebrated constitution and former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga aka Baba gets whatever he wants in Kenya apart from the Presidency. Raila is hated and loved in equal measure. He is seen as a bad omen by some people but at the same time commands a cult-like following. Fathers strip naked if Raila is harassed, mothers protect him whenever he is told to retire from active politics considering his age while the youths go to the streets to be shot for Baba’s sake.
If what Raila has achieved as a politician is anything to go by, he should have been or should be the Head of State. In case you practice political neutrality, you will appreciate Odinga’s role in the struggle for multi-party democracy in Kenya.
He was part of Kenyans who were tired of one party dictatorship and fought for what we see today. When you see political parties mushrooming like wild weeds, say a positive word about Raila.
The new constitution is something that has been praised by many despite its mutilation by several State organs. Only those who died before its adoption can be forgiven if they do not appreciate Raila’s effort in its crafting. It is a document that has given everyone power and freedom including those who went round the country saying it was the worst constitution.
Odinga demands what is rightfully his and he gets it. When he wanted the IEBC out, his will was done despite the bloodshed and the “Mtu wa maandamano” nickname he has been given by his political foes.
It is also a norm to fail if you revolt against Odinga thus many politicians choose to “worship” him for political survival. The sacking of Waiguru, parallel tallying center demand and VIP treatment are just a few of the things that Raila is given if he means to get them.
However, what makes Raila Odinga not to be the president despite several attempts? Is it lack of strategy, his advisors, poor friends as Miguna Miguna says, the alleged warning not to vie by his father Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, fate or the Mt. Kenya cartel that is always fighting him?