ODM refutes claims of Raila's popularity decline in Nyanza

A report from the Standard newspaper alleged that Nyanza showed a mass disapproval of Raila's union with President William Ruto under the broad-based banner while simultaneously demanding justice for Ojwang'. 

In a statement issued by ODM national chairman Gladys Wanga, the party dismissed the report, citing that the funeral was a national event that drew attendees from all political beliefs. 

"It drew attendees from every corner of the country, from the coast, where Albert was educated and worked, to Nairobi, where he tragically lost his life in police custody, to Homs Bay, his ancestral home," Wanga said. 

"The emotions among mourners were palpable, but the service and interment were conducted peacefully, defying earlier predictions of chaos."

The party reiterated that Raila cannot be discredited for his contribution to the country's history while pointing out his consistent fight for justice and sacrifice to lead. 

"ODM is strong and solid, and our recent national grassroots elections reaffirmed our standing as the strongest party in the nation. The continuous sensationalism and negativity directed at him do not just misrepresent him; they undermine his legacy and the values he stands for," she added. 

During Ojwang's burial, family, friends and several leaders paid their last respects to the slain teacher whose death brought the spotlight yet again on the blatant abuse of rights by security agencies. 

The political leaders rejected claims that their roles in government had blinded them to state excesses, especially the recent wave of abductions and killings.

“You fellows walking around the country without any agenda, trying to divide the country along tribal lines, hanging on the cause of Gen Zs—these Gen Zs have walked faithfully. They will not allow you to hijack that for your own selfish interests,” Wanga stated. 

“We are just people. We stand for justice, whether we are in government or not. Do not purport to question us—we have fought for this country since independence,” Millie Odhiambo, MP for Suba North added.