The nomination of Ida Odinga, the widow of the late Raila Odinga, to a position within the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has generated a spectrum of reactions.
Many individuals view this nomination as a commendable honor, extending congratulations to the President for offering support to Ida following the recent loss of her husband, who died while receiving treatment in India. Conversely, critics argue that this prestigious ambassadorial role may diminish her stature, urging her to decline the appointment.
Ida Odinga has historically been associated with the political legacy of her late husband, who contested the presidency four times since 1997, with some supporters claiming he was unjustly denied victory in several elections. Consequently, she has often been perceived as sharing in his political influence and public prominence.
Appointing the spouse of a prominent political figure to an ambassadorial post raises concerns about a potential demotion, arguably undermining her significance in the political landscape. Many contend that she should instead focus on perpetuating her husband’s legacy and advancing the vision he championed.
Ida Odinga’s influence in the Nyanza region far exceeds that of typical ministerial roles. She is revered as the “mother” of the Luo community, commanding immense respect from local leaders, who often bow or kneel in her presence.
Now, she faces the prospect of replacing Ababu Namwamba as the Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda. Namwamba, a former ODM Secretary-General, once took directives from her late husband.
The vetting process for Ida Odinga adds complexity to her nomination. She must appear before the National Assembly committee to assess her qualifications for the UNEP role. This requirement could further be perceived as a demotion, especially given that some MPs involved in her vetting reportedly sought her support for ODM tickets prior to the 2022 general elections.
Even within the ODM party, dissenting voices have emerged. Deputy leader Geodfrey Osotsi has publicly advised her to reject the UNEP appointment, asserting that her stature far exceeds such a role.
“We have witnessed President William Ruto appointing Mama Ida Odinga as Ambassador. We urge our esteemed Mama Ida to decline this offer. She holds a position well above that of an ambassador,” Osotsi stated.
Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has also cautioned her against accepting the role, emphasizing the importance of heeding the right advice.
“Mama, if you are inclined to trust anyone’s counsel, I implore you to trust only these individuals. The others are sellouts; I need not name them. Stand with the people,” he urged.
Political analyst Herman Manyora has also weighed in, advising Ida Odinga to maintain a low profile and refrain from active politics, recommending that she emulate Mama Ngina Kenyatta’s approach following the death of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, in 1978. Manyora emphasized the importance of focusing on family and personal affairs during this transitional period.
In a recent interview, Manyora highlighted that given Raila Odinga’s significant political legacy, the Odinga family should adopt a cautious and discreet approach akin to that of the Kenyatta family, ensuring they remain influential yet reserved in political matters.
“If they wish to engage in Kenyan politics, considering their lineage, they should emulate Mama Ngina Kenyatta and study her conduct from 1978 onwards. They must learn from her silence, caution, and measured firmness during Kenya’s transition to multiparty democracy, which ultimately facilitated Uhuru Kenyatta’s presidency,” Manyora advised.
The question now looms: Which path will Ida Odinga choose? She could continue in a role as an advisor or counselor, providing guidance when necessary, rather than assuming a diplomatic position where she would be accountable to the President, who should ideally seek her counsel on national governance.
