What was Raila Odinga's role in restoring multiparty democracy in Kenya?

Raila Odinga was a prominent figure who challenged one-party rule and helped restore multiparty democracy to Kenya's political agenda in 1991.

What was the significance of the 2010 constitutional referendum?

The 2010 constitutional referendum, in which Raila Odinga played a prominent role, expanded the Bill of Rights, established devolution, and strengthened checks and balances on executive power.

Raila Odinga's Political Legacy Examined One Year After His Death

A look back at Raila Odinga's career, from fighting for multiparty democracy to his final political realignments, and what his impact means for Kenya's ongoing struggles with power and accountability.

2026-10-15 · Updated 2026-10-15

One year after his death, Raila Odinga's political career is being examined for its impact on Kenya's democratic journey. Odinga was a key figure in the restoration of multiparty democracy in 1991 and was known for his ability to mobilize mass movements and keep electoral reform central to national discourse.

His career was marked by a willingness to compromise, often aligning with political rivals. This pragmatism, while seen by supporters as prioritizing national interests, also led critics to question the cost of such compromises and the fate of the causes he championed.

Odinga's involvement in significant political events, including the 2007 disputed election and the subsequent power-sharing agreement that made him Prime Minister, highlighted the fragility of Kenya's democratic progress. He also played a prominent role in the 2010 constitutional referendum, which expanded rights and strengthened governance structures.

The Supreme Court's annulment of the 2017 presidential election underscored the role of judicial institutions in checking executive power, though persistent electoral mistrust remained a challenge. Odinga's subsequent "handshake" with President Uhuru Kenyatta led to the Building Bridges Initiative, which aimed to address governance issues but ultimately failed in court.

In the period leading up to his death, Odinga led protests against the government on issues like the cost of living and taxation. However, a new generation of protesters emerged, questioning established political hierarchies and demanding accountability on economic hardship and corruption.

In March 2025, Odinga and President William Ruto signed a framework for cooperation on issues including devolution and electoral reform. This agreement, however, caused divisions within Odinga's party, with some factions accusing Ruto's party of not upholding its commitments.

FAQ

What was Raila Odinga's role in restoring multiparty democracy in Kenya?: Raila Odinga was a prominent figure who challenged one-party rule and helped restore multiparty democracy to Kenya's political agenda in 1991.
What was the significance of the 2010 constitutional referendum?: The 2010 constitutional referendum, in which Raila Odinga played a prominent role, expanded the Bill of Rights, established devolution, and strengthened checks and balances on executive power.