Lawyer Willis Otieno has pointed out the double standards of government officials who are visiting Opoda in Farm to comfort the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
After his passing on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, leaders from different political parties have been expressing their sadness over the loss of the ODM leader, praising him as a father of democracy and a fighter for better governance.
Yet, while leaders from both the government and the opposition stand with the Odinga family during this tough time, Willis Otieno has criticized those who troubled Raila Odinga throughout his life, as he sought justice for the less fortunate and called for changes in the government, along with fair electoral practices.
Calling out tormentors
“Now, those who ordered the tear gas and financed the bullets act like they were his allies, singing songs about freedom they never really believed in. This is extreme hypocrisy! Raila wasn’t fighting against imaginary problems; he was standing up against them, their thefts, their lies, and their corrupt system,” Otieno expressed on X on Monday, November 10, 2025.
Raila Odinga frequently faced harsh treatment and police violence, marked by live bullets being fired and tear gas being used against his supporters whenever they gathered to discuss and challenge the injustices in the government.
Willis Otieno believes that the current heavy military equipment was bought to silence Raila Odinga and his followers, claiming that the officials who are now mourning are the very ones who acquired these weapons and military vehicles.
Police Violence
Supporters of Raila Odinga frequently took to the streets to express their anger about the rising cost of living and unfair election practices. When they gathered on main roads and in city areas, heavily armed police responded with force, as Willis Otieno criticizes those in power who gave the orders.
“The police trucks you currently see intimidating the younger generation were initially bought to suppress Raila’s protests. The same government that used harsh tactics against him is now doing the same to the youth. We must not forget the past. When Raila fought for democracy, they called him crazy. When he mourned for his supporters, they said it was peaceful. When he held his ground, they labeled it disorder. They broke his bones, silenced him, and now they want to take credit for his achievements,” Willis Otieno said.
At the same time, both the public and various leaders continue to visit Opoda Farm to pay their respects to the family of the Late Raila Odinga.
