Let's focus on what is right than what is popular, Raila tells leaders

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has urged leaders to drop their personal interests and focus on what is right for the good of the nation.

Responding to the recent protests in the country, Raila criticised the opposition leaders who he said are supporting it as a possible path to power.

He reminded such individuals “praying for more of such turmoil” that there are millions of other Kenyans working and praying for the nation to overcome, stand, and thrive no matter the existing political differences.

According to the ODM leader, leaders regardless of their political affiliations ought to come together during such difficult moments to help “turn the tide” by providing solutions.

Raila also had a message to members of the national executive urging them to strive to ensure that they at all times put the interests of the people first.

“You are not put in place merely to follow currents,” he said.

He said there have been several instances of leaders running away from their responsibilities of leading and opting for what is easy and popular.

“In times of challenges, we must ask ourselves, ‘Are we turning the tide or trying to survive by doing what is easy and popular. Are we listening to them or merely talking at them?” he posed.

Raila made the remarks Friday during the second day of the national executive retreat in Karen, Nairobi.

President William Ruto, who officially opened the retreat Thursda,y was also present.

Raila at the same time lauded the government for addressing issues raised in the impugned Finance Bill, 2024, that led to the protests.

Moving forward, he said, it should now look into more avenues for response to the burdens of the people.

“This government must do not in order to be popular or to win the next election but because it is the right thing to do,” he said.