Raila Amollo Odinga, the seasoned Kenyan politician, has navigated the tumultuous waters of politics with remarkable agility. His career has been punctuated by a series of strategic alliances and unexpected handshakes, each leaving an indelible mark on Kenya’s political landscape. Here are some the key political handshakes that have shaped Raila’s journey:
President Daniel Moi’s MOU (Memorandum of Understanding):
In 1997, Raila Odinga and then-President Daniel Moi (now deceased) forged an unlikely alliance. This move surprised many, given their previous falling out and Raila’s nine-year detention by Moi.
Under the terms of the MOU, Raila dissolved his National Development Party (NDP) to join Moi’s Kenya African National Union (KANU). In return, he became KANU’s Secretary General and Minister for Energy.
However, this alliance was short-lived. Raila walked out of KANU when he disagreed with Moi’s choice of Uhuru Kenyatta as his successor.
Raila backed Mwai Kibaki’s presidential candidacy, even campaigning for him during challenging times, such as Kibaki’s involvement in a serious road accident.
As a reward, Raila was appointed Minister of Roads. But their relationship soured when Raila felt politically shortchanged, leading to his dismissal from the government.
Mwai Kibaki and the Kibaki-Raila Peace Accord:
After the contentious 2007 presidential election, Raila contested the results, triggering widespread violence. Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan facilitated talks that resulted in a peace accord.
In a historic moment, Raila and President Kibaki publicly shook hands, symbolizing reconciliation. Raila became Prime Minister, sharing half of the government ministries in an arrangement known as ‘nusu mkate’ (half a loaf).
This deal lasted five years, spanning Kibaki’s tenure as Head of State.
Uhuru Kenyatta’s Handshake:
In 2018, Raila finished second to President Uhuru Kenyatta in the general elections. He successfully challenged the election outcome in court, leading to its nullification.
Rather than participating in the fresh election, Raila opted out, effectively handing Kenyatta a landslide victory.
The handshake between Raila and Kenyatta marked a significant moment in Kenya’s political history, emphasizing unity and stability.
President Ruto
The recent meeting between President William Ruto and Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya Coalition leader Raila Odinga in Uganda has been referred to as a “foreseen handshake.” This unexpected encounter took place during discussions with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.
The trio’s interaction has left Kenyans speculating whether they are working on a possible handshake deal, similar to the one between Raila Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta back in March 2018.
The term “foreseen handshake” suggests that this meeting was anticipated or expected, even though the details and implications remain unclear. As political dynamics continue to evolve, observers are closely watching how this encounter might impact the regional and national landscape.
Raila Odinga’s political journey has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and strategic maneuvering. Each handshake has left an imprint, shaping the nation’s course and sparking both hope and controversy.
The Writer, Faith Okioma Ombuya is a Second Year Communication Studies student at Chuka University
Cover Photo: Pan African Visions
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