The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi has refuted claims that some ODM members joined the broad-based government against the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s wishes.
Wandayi stated that Raila wanted the coalition to succeed and that ODM officials entered the government with his full support.
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“Among the current generation of leaders, if you exclude the senior figures, I am one of those who served Raila the longest and understand his thinking,” Wandayi said.
He added that Raila’s goal was stability and efficiency in government, and that allowing ODM members to work with the Kenya Kwanza administration was a deliberate effort to advance national development.
“I am certain Raila wanted this government to succeed for the benefit of all Kenyans,” he said. “He willingly permitted his party members to participate as a contribution toward progress.”
Wandayi joined President Ruto’s administration in 2024 amid widespread anti-government protests, alongside other ODM officials including Mining CS Hassan Joho, Treasury CS John Mbadi, and Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya.
His comments come after Suba South MP Caroli Omondi criticized some leaders for allegedly using Raila’s name to justify their participation, claiming they acted contrary to his guidance.
“People are putting words into the mouth of a dead man for convenience,” Omondi said, asserting that some politicians ignored Raila’s instructions.
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Wandayi rejected this view, saying those who worked closely with Raila understood his broader vision for national stability and service delivery.
He also acknowledged the political void left by Raila’s passing, noting that many of his followers are still adjusting to the loss.
“Most of us who were Raila’s political disciples feel orphaned,” Wandayi said. “His death was sudden, but life must go on. We owe it to Kenyans to carry forward Baba’s legacy through service.”
Defending his ongoing engagement in ODM affairs, Wandayi emphasized that cabinet secretaries have a constitutional right to participate in political activities, including explaining and defending government programs.
