Political analyst Kipkalya Kones has commented on the ongoing debate surrounding Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi’s recent remarks that have drawn criticism from members of the Odinga family.
His remarks follow public statements by Ruth Odinga, Ida Odinga, Winnie Odinga, and Raila Odinga Junior, who all condemned Mbadi over comments made during a recent ODM engagement.
The remarks were interpreted by some members of the family as dismissive of Raila Odinga’s political legacy.
In his assessment, Kones argued that the reactions from the family reflect a clear disagreement with Mbadi’s position and suggested that they should align politically with a grouping he referred to as “Linda Mwananchi.”
“Now that Ruth, Ida, Winnie and Junior have all condemned Mbadi’s utterances, and since Oburu Odinga doesn’t seem bothered by the desecrating of Raila’s memory, what they should do is to bravely move to Linda Mwananchi and leave Mbadi and Oburu in that shell they now wave around,” Kones said.
He added that political alignment should be guided by respect for Raila Odinga’s legacy, noting that differences within ODM appear to be widening.
“It is only logical that they align with the side that honours and respects Raila. You can’t force ruffians like Mbadi to know class and political dignity,” he said.
The comments come in the context of growing internal debate within ODM following Mbadi’s statement that the party does not belong to the Odinga family and references to a “post Raila era.”
The remarks have prompted criticism from sections of the family and supporters who felt the language was inappropriate.
Ruth Odinga said Raila Odinga’s political influence should not be reduced to family ownership, but maintained that leaders must exercise caution when speaking about his legacy. Raila Odinga Junior also called for restraint, urging political leaders to avoid statements that could deepen internal tensions.
Mbadi has defended his remarks, stating that they were aimed at encouraging internal reflection within ODM and were not intended as a personal attack.
He has maintained that his comments were taken out of context.