A past political rally in Nakuru has resurfaced in public discourse after ODM Communications Director Philip Etale shared a detailed account of how the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga pressed ahead with a charged public meeting despite security threats and violent disruptions.
In a statement, Etale recounted events leading up to the 2016 rally at Mazembe Grounds in Kaptembwa, describing it as one of the most tense political moments at the time.
According to him, there had been attempts by political actors allied to then-President Uhuru Kenyatta to dissuade Odinga from attending the event, citing fears of unrest.
Etale said he personally raised the concerns with Odinga during a phone call days before the rally. However, the ODM leader remained resolute.
“Philip we are going to Nakuru, let them do what they want,” Odinga reportedly told him.
The situation escalated on the day of the rally when Odinga’s convoy stopped for lunch along Kabarak Road. Etale alleged that a group of individuals, led by two legislators, attacked the venue, hurling stones and causing panic among those present.
“They hurled missiles at the hotel where Baba and his entourage were having lunch… the windows were shuttered as everyone except Baba scampered for safety,” Etale said.
Despite the chaos, Etale described Odinga as calm and unshaken, remaining seated and continuing with his meal even as anti-riot police moved in to disperse the attackers.
“As all this was happening, the undeterred Raila remained in his seat, continued to eat as if nothing was happening,” he added.
After calm was restored, Odinga reportedly addressed those around him, urging them to remain steadfast in the face of intimidation.
“Why were you guys running up and down like headless chickens? In life when you make a choice, stick to it no matter what happens,” Odinga said.
“Kelele za chura haziwezi kuzuia ng’ombe kunywa maji,” he added.
The convoy later proceeded to Mazembe Grounds, where thousands had gathered. Etale noted that the crowd was so large that some attendees climbed trees and nearby structures to follow the proceedings.
“The ground was so packed that people had to climb up on trees and nearby buildings to follow the proceedings,” he said.
Odinga addressed the rally at length, engaging the crowd in what Etale described as a highly charged but successful meeting.
“Baba spoke, and spoke and spoke until he was satisfied that the people were also satisfied,” Etale noted.
The account has since sparked renewed reflection among ODM supporters, with Etale framing the incident as a lesson in political resilience.
“When you give in to another person’s threats, you give him or her the opportunity to fly higher above you,” he concluded.