City lawyer Donald Kipkorir has officially ended his loyalty and support for Raila Odinga. According to Kipkorir, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader has been a symbol of change in Kenya. However, in light of the Gen Z generation’s revolt against the government, Kipkorir has shifted his allegiance from Raila to the youth.
Hope in Gen Z
The flamboyant lawyer is optimistic that Gen Z can bring about positive change in the country, unlike the past approaches. “Gen Z has given me hope that Kenya without tribalism, corruption, nepotism, and cronyism is possible. A Kenya that values all her children over tribe, creed, class, gender, and age. A Kenya without political violence. A Kenya where police don’t kill or abduct,” Kipkorir stated in a post on X on Thursday, July 18, 2024.
Kipkorir’s Vision for Kenya
Kipkorir envisions a Kenya where individuals don’t need to bribe to get government tenders or to be paid for unpaid bills. He reflected on his long-held belief that Raila Odinga would lead the country to this ideal state. “It was a Kenya that for long I believed it is a Canaan that Baba Raila Odinga will lead us,” he added.
A Shift in Support
Kipkorir mentioned that his support for the five-time presidential candidate began almost 20 years ago. However, he now places his hope for a better country on Gen Z. “Now that Baba was unable to lead us and Gen Z without a leader have taken the baton, it saddens me that Baba wants to derail this transformative moment. Between Gen Z and Raila Odinga, I choose Gen Z,” he explained.
End of an Era
Expressing respect for Raila’s contributions to democracy, Kipkorir announced the end of his support for him. “With the greatest respect for his hitherto contribution to our democracy, I hereby end my support for Baba that began in 2005. I hope and pray Gen Z will lead us to Canaan in my lifetime. My allegiance and loyalty to Raila Odinga ended today,” he concluded.
Context of the Shift
Kipkorir’s change of heart comes after Raila’s ODM expressed readiness for dialogue with William Ruto’s regime. President Ruto has been under intense pressure from Gen Z, who have been demonstrating against his government for weeks. The call for dialogue was not well received by the young people and some political leaders, complicating matters for the president, who also dissolved his cabinet to appease the restless masses.
