Raila: Kenya must come first in all we do

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga made a passionate appeal on Friday, urging Kenyans to prioritize the country’s stability and well-being above all else. He also called on leaders to ensure that every government policy, programme, and decision reflects the collective interests of the people.

Speaking during the Third National Executive Retreat in Karen, Raila reminded all and sundry that no amount of ambition or political vision can be realized without a stable, united nation.

“I speak as one who has journeyed with Kenya and who wishes this country well. I believe strongly that no matter our disagreements, our visions and disappointments, we have to have a country first,” he declared.

Referencing the recent MoU between ODM and UDA, Raila stated that the agreement, which gave rise to a broad-based government under President William Ruto last year, aimed to protect Kenya’s stability while fostering a people-driven service culture.

“That MoU not only preserved the nation, but also laid out an agenda for pragmatic, inclusive and people-centred delivery,” he said

While making a case for unity, the former Premier delivered a powerful reminder that a divided or unstable country cannot achieve transformation, regardless of its aspirations.

“We may hold lofty visions as we wish, but without a country to implement those ideas, they will remain mere wishes and deferred dreams. An imperfect nation making efforts to become a more perfect union is preferable to a nation that went under,”Raila reiterated.

Highlighting recent national challenges, Raila noted that the country stands at a crossroads—caught between public demands for better services and inclusive governance, and political jostling for power. Yet, according to Raila, all voices must be heard.

“This is a trying time for the country, emerging from those demanding better services and more say in government. The ferment is also driven by those who feel they have to be in power. Both categories are citizens of Kenya, they deserve a hearing,” he said.

Raila stressed that citizens must be at the centre of all public affairs. He challenged the Executive to ensure that the public not only benefits from government interventions but is also actively involved in policy design and execution.

“One of the lessons I hope you in the Executive have picked is that without the people’s understanding and ownership of government processes, the perception will persist that the government is not delivering,” he cautioned. “The persistent concern must be: are we carrying the people along?”