Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has defended his decision to support President William Ruto's administration, saying the move prevented Kenya from becoming a failed state.
Speaking during the burial ceremony of veteran politician Phoebe Asiyo in Karachuonyo, Homa Bay County, on Friday, August 8, Raila said his decision was made in the country's best interest.
The former Prime Minister warned that Kenya faced the risk of collapsing into chaos similar to other countries that have experienced political instability.
"There was a very big probability of Kenya deteriorating into a failed state like Somalia. Like Sudan today. People who do not understand History talk very easily. Tell them what happened in Libya and Egypt. Why do we have a military regime in Egypt today?" Raila questioned. "People do not understand, that's why they write newspaper articles, and I just read and laugh."
Raila challenged critics to provide alternative solutions to the political crisis that faced the country, maintaining that his actions were necessary for peace.
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He stood his ground on the decision to form a broad-based government, which he credits with the current state of peace in the country.
"I want to invite anybody to tell me how this could have been solved. We sacrificed so that there could be peace in this country. And that is why we are here today. I do not regret what we did," Raila stated. "We did it in the country's best interest, and Kenya must move forward."
The ODM leader outlined conditions that must be met for the country to move forward, emphasizing respect for human rights and addressing citizens' welfare.
"Issues of human rights must be respected. We must ensure that our people are protected. That people have food and work. That their children can go to school. The cost of living must be brought down," Raila said.
He called for adherence to the rule of law and reform in how security forces handle civilians.
"There must be the rule of law. The security forces are there to protect people. The police are servants of people, not masters. They need to be civil to the people. If I have committed an offense, arrest me and take me to court. Don't shoot me. Don't shoot to kill, or even to maim," he added.
