This is How Leaders Betrayed Raila in Life but Praised Him in Death
Kenya continues to grapple with the loss of Raila Odinga, the iconic opposition leader who for over five decades stood as the face of democracy, social justice, and environmental stewardship.
His death at 80, following a heart attack in India, plunged the nation into sorrow.
Yet amid the mourning and tributes, KTN News’ “First the Facts” segment hosted by Ham Kamariki has ignited a new national conversation exposing what he calls Kenya’s “culture of political hypocrisy.”
Kamariki’s investigative commentary, which aired on October 24, 2025, quickly gained traction, amassing nearly 97,000 views, 865 likes, and 254 comments within hours.
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The journalist drew a striking contrast between the eulogies showered on Raila in death and the venom hurled at him in life.
Through his narrative, Raila emerges as “a man who planted the trees of freedom, only for others to chop them down and weep over the stumps.”
In one biting remark, Kamariki asked, “What kind of country writes poetry at a man’s funeral after vandalizing his life?”
His words carried added weight given the political events of the day — President William Ruto’s signing of the Cybercrimes Bill, a law widely criticized for curbing free speech.
Ironically, the bill was enacted on the same day Raila, who endured detention and torture for democratic rights, passed away.
“It’s a daylight murder of democracy,” Kamariki declared, arguing that the timing symbolized how Kenya continues to betray the ideals Raila fought for.
The exposé went further, naming prominent figures accused of duplicity. Kimani Ichung’wah, who once dismissed Raila as a “mercenary for hire,” led the funeral tributes.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who famously demanded Raila’s “permanent retirement,” later called him a “hero of democracy.”
Even Miguna Miguna, a persistent critic, posted glowing condolences online.
But perhaps the most controversial was Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who had blamed Raila for Mount Kenya’s woes but eulogized him as a “national father figure.”
Kamariki’s conclusion cut deep: had these leaders valued Raila’s ideals while he lived, Kenya might have achieved the unity it now pretends to mourn.
Quoting the classic song “Games People Play,” he warned that the nation risks repeating the same deceit — “never meaning what they say.”
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