Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has been called out and accused of engaging in premature ODM succession politics even before the burial of the late Raila Odinga.
Speaking on TV47 on Friday, October 17, political analyst Arnold Maliba expressed disappointment over Wandayi’s earlier remarks, describing them as insensitive and ill-timed.
Maliba accused the Cabinet Secretary of showing disrespect to the fallen opposition leader by delving into succession debates when the nation was still mourning.
He argued that Wandayi’s actions amounted to political opportunism, suggesting that the CS was using Raila’s death to advance his own political relevance within ODM.
Maliba said it was deeply unfortunate for a person who had been politically nurtured by Raila to appear to take advantage of his passing.
He added that discussions about ODM’s future leadership should wait until Raila is accorded a dignified farewell.
According to Maliba, the focus should be on celebrating Raila’s legacy, not on who takes over the party.
His criticism came shortly after Wandayi made public remarks praising ODM for naming Raila’s elder brother and Siaya senator, Dr Oburu Odinga, as the interim party leader.Wandayi had also announced his intention to propose that Oburu be confirmed as the permanent party leader once Raila’s burial is concluded.
In addition, the CS indicated that ODM would continue working closely with President William Ruto’s UDA beyond 2027, arguing that Raila them in government and they don’t intend to bolt out.
The comments by Wandayi attracted backlash from a section of ODM loyalists, who viewed them as premature and disrespectful.
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi was among those who criticised Wandayi, saying it was inappropriate to engage in political talk before the funeral rites were complete.
Amisi cautioned ODM leaders against turning Raila’s funeral into a political contest, urging them to let the nation mourn in peace.
Maliba echoed Amisi’s sentiments, urging Wandayi to focus solely on helping the country give Raila Odinga a send-off befitting a statesman he was.
Add Comment