Raila Odinga must redeem the Image of ODM

Violence [physical, verbal and emotional] is degrading, primitive and destructive. Yet that is what we saw over the weekend in Homa Bay when different aspirants and their supporters resorted to violence in full glare of their party leader Raila Odinga.

The violence experienced at the rally has raised concerns about potential dangers at campaign when the election period is finally here. History can be an annoying, pernicious thing. It is an open secret that Orange Democratic Movement has a history rooted in violence and demonstrations. The 2007 post-election violence was partly blamed on ODM leadership and supporters for refusing to accept the presidential results. In total over 1300 Kenyans lost their lives and the economy was shattered. Prior to the 2013 elections, during the party primaries to be precise, ODM strong holds were hit with violence as different aspirants tore in to each other and accused the party of favoritism. Again as it’s the norm property worth millions of shillings were destroyed and roads blocked.