Raila Odinga: Government caught off guard by floods

Azimio la Umoja coalition leader, Raila Odinga. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Azimio la Umoja coalition leader, Raila Odinga, has expressed concerns over the government's readiness in flood management and rescue operations.

Speaking at a press conference on April 30, Odinga criticised the government's response to the ongoing floods.

"These floods, unprecedented in many ways, have exposed our country's failure to plan adequately for weather and climate change-driven disasters, and the underinvestment in infrastructure and social welfare across the country," said Odinga.

Despite the country's active role in advocating for climate change, Odinga claimed that it was caught off guard by the floods.

"Despite accurate predictions of heavy rains and storms by the Meteorological Department, there were no advance contingency plans," he said.

Odinga further criticised the government's communication channels, which he claims create confusion in delivering information about floods.

"For the days ahead and as the rains continue, we ask the government to be proactive, clear the confusion being witnessed, end duplication and unnecessary competition within its ranks, and create clarity over roles and responsibilities in the response and incident management system," he added.

Odinga urged the government to prioritise the most urgent needs of low-income people across the country and ensure their voices are heard as recovery efforts continue.

He also encouraged contributions to national relief efforts, particularly through the Red Cross or other accountable organisations assisting flood victims.