Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has accused some leaders within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) of failing to stand with the late opposition chief Raila Odinga during some of the most difficult moments of his political career.
Speaking during a podcast this week, Amisi questioned the commitment of a section of politicians who, according to him, were publicly associated with Raila and often portrayed themselves as his close allies but allegedly kept their distance whenever political confrontations and street demonstrations became intense.
Among those he singled out was former Mombasa Governor and Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, whom Amisi described as one of the politicians who were considered close to Raila but allegedly became less visible during moments that required political mobilisation and personal sacrifice. Another was also Wycliffe Oparanya who didn’t show up during Raila’s swearing in at Uhuru Park and never also turned up in any demonstrations.
Amisi went on to challenge anyone, including members of the media, to produce evidence showing Joho actively participating in demonstrations alongside Raila’s supporters.
“Show Kenyans even one photo of Joho in a demonstration. One photo where Joho is being tear-gassed,” Amisi said, as he questioned the extent to which some of Raila’s allies were willing to share the risks associated with opposition politics.
The Saboti lawmaker’s remarks come amid renewed debate within opposition circles over the political legacy of Raila and the role played by various leaders who worked closely with him over the years.
Raila was known for leading high-profile opposition campaigns and demonstrations, particularly during periods when his political alliances were challenging the government of the day. His confrontational style of politics frequently saw his supporters take to the streets, sometimes resulting in clashes with police and the use of tear gas.
Amisi’s comments appear to draw a distinction between politicians who were prominent in Raila’s political circle and those who, in his view, were willing to physically participate in protests and confrontations when the political stakes were high.
The remarks are likely to fuel further discussion within ODM and the broader opposition camp about loyalty, political sacrifice and the contribution of individual leaders to Raila’s long political journey.
Joho, who served as Mombasa Governor before being appointed to the Cabinet, was for years regarded as one of Raila’s influential allies, particularly within the Coast region. His relationship with Raila was also significant in ODM’s efforts to consolidate support along the Kenyan coast.
However, Amisi’s latest criticism suggests that questions over who stood with Raila during his most difficult political moments could become part of the wider debate over his legacy and the future direction of the opposition.
