ODM leader Rails Odinga Addresses parliament on Friday.
By IP Reporter.
NAIROBI, Kenya.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Friday warned lawmakers that political noise and public backlash could scare away credible investors, as he defended the scrapped airport deal between Kenya and India’s Adani Group.
Speaking during a National Executive Retreat in Karen, Odinga said the cancellation of the public-private partnership (PPP) for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was more political than legal.
“I was very disappointed we couldn’t proceed with the Adani contract. Politics got in the way,” he said.
Odinga urged MPs to avoid blanket condemnation of investors, even in the face of alleged misconduct.
“If individuals made mistakes, they should be held accountable. But let’s not punish entire companies.”
The deal, cancelled in late 2024 on orders from President William Ruto, had been criticized over corruption concerns linked to Adani.
Odinga said Kenya risks sending the wrong signal to potential partners.
He warned that Nairobi’s regional advantage could slip away if such decisions continue.
“Addis Ababa and Kigali are moving fast. If we don’t act, Nairobi will fall behind,” he said.
Odinga also pointed to Kenya’s weak legal framework for PPPs, which he said has long discouraged serious investors.
He called for a balance between fighting corruption and protecting long-term economic interests, saying Kenya must not sacrifice development to political expediency.
The former prime minister’s remarks come amid rising public frustration over government spending, the high cost of living, and the recent finance bill.
As Parliament moves to review the PPP law, Odinga’s message was clear: stable, investor-friendly policy is key to Kenya’s future.
Ends.
