NARC K leader Martha Karua and ODM leader Raila Odinga By PETER MWIBANDA
NAIROBI, Kenya (IP)
Raila Amolo Odinga wasn’t just an opposition titan — he was a rare male voice in Kenyan politics who relentlessly championed women’s equality.
His death leaves behind an unfinished revolution for gender parity that may yet outlive him.
From picking Martha Karua as his 2022 running mate to demanding political parties elevate women, Odinga broke tradition and challenged patriarchy head-on.
“He didn’t choose Karua to tick a box,” said gender policy expert Teresa Musanga. “He chose her because she was ready to govern.”
As Prime Minister, Odinga pushed for women in Cabinet and fought for enforcement of the two-thirds gender rule.
Under his ODM party, female leaders like Millie Odhiambo found space to rise — even when it cost him politically.
Yet Kenya’s dream of equality remains elusive.
Parliament still ignores gender laws, women face political violence and progress lags.
Without Odinga’s voice, advocates fear momentum may fade.
Still, his influence lives on in leaders like Governors Gladys Wanga and young legislators redefining Odingaism into an issue-driven movement.
Raila Odinga’s dream was simple — and revolutionary: democracy without women is no democracy at all.
