Azimio leader Raila Odinga has reiterated that his recent handshake with President William Ruto, which led to the formation of a broad-based government, does not constitute a betrayal of anyone.
Speaking on Saturday May 10, 2025 at Simenya Primary School grounds during the burial of veteran journalist Edward Kwach in Ugunja sub-county, Raila dismissed criticism surrounding the handshake, insisting that no one should view it negatively.
The ODM party leader laughed off those condemning his reconciliation with President Ruto, emphasizing that a handshake is never harmful and has never been a means of betraying his people.
He further explained that the political agreement with President Ruto serves to provide direction for his supporters, reassuring them that he remains committed to leading them towards the future he envisions.
Reflecting on the 2022 general elections, where he was defeated by Ruto, Odinga acknowledged certain irregularities but urged Kenyans not to be alarmed by current political developments.
He expressed confidence in his path, stating that he knows where he has come from, where he stands, and where he is headed.
His remarks come at a time when his Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is experiencing internal turmoil, with factions either opposing or supporting the political truce with Kenya Kwanza government.
Raila Urges African Nations To Foster Youth Empowerment
Raila Odinga has called on African nations to create a conducive environment for youth empowerment, emphasizing that innovation and skill development are key to tackling unemployment.
Speaking at the Bondo Technical Training Institute during the graduation ceremony of over 200 students who completed their filmmaking training at the Bondo Community Digital Hub, Raila highlighted the crucial role of youth in shaping society.
He warned that young people could either be a driving force for progress or a challenge, depending on how they are guided, noting that without the necessary skills, they risk falling into delinquency, drug addiction, or criminal activities.
Raila emphasized that knowledge and skill-building empower young people to become valuable contributors to society and encouraged the graduates to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI), noting that technological proficiency could open doors to wealth creation and help African nations bridge the gap with developed economies.
He was accompanied by the Patron of Siaya Community Digital Hub Dr. Oburu Oginga, who stated that the hub’s primary objective is to equip young people not only to seek employment but also to become job creators.
Dr. Oburu, who also serves as Siaya County Senator, added that some graduates would be absorbed into their Business Sourcing Center to support entrepreneurship.
During the event, Kenya Film Commission Chairman Sudi Wandabusi announced a donation of Ksh 1.2 million to the Siaya Community Digital Hub to support post-training initiatives and urged the hub management to explore film-related programs, fostering creativity and innovation among its trainees.
