Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has come under fire over remarks he made during the burial of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Several leaders allied to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) criticized Kingi’s tribute, accusing him of betraying the former Prime Minister when he needed him most.
Saboti MP Caleb Hamisi was among those who accused the Senate Speaker of hypocrisy.
“Ninety percent of the speeches at Baba’s funeral came from hypocrites. For example, Kingi says he was too loyal to Baba, yet he left him during the last election when Baba needed him most. He even formed his own party, supported Baba’s opponent, and insulted him. Wonders will never cease. Rest in peace,” said Hamisi.
Kingi Criticized for the Tribute He Paid to Raila
Former KTN journalist Dennis Onsarigo, who served in the Azimio communication team during the last presidential election, also shared similar sentiments with Hamisi.
“Speaker Kingi showed Baba things. I wonder how he can stand here and tell us how he was loyal to Baba… Anyway, we move on. Rest in peace, Mzee,” said Onsarigo.
Also Read: Ruto Lifts Lid on Raila’s Health Struggles in Final Months Before His Death
A section of Kenyans also weighed in on social media, claiming that the Senate Speaker turned against the former Prime Minister in the run-up to the 2022 General Election.
A social media user by the name Múlwa Mawīoo said, “The internet never forgets. All those politicians said very bad things about Baba, but the man had a big heart and forgave them. He shall forever remain in our hearts.”
Kenyans Reaction Towards Senate Speaker’s Tribute
Another user, Mkenya 254, commented, “Actually, most of the speeches were from a very selfish political standpoint. They could not even wait for him to be buried; they were very disrespectful and inconsiderate.”
Another user, Archer, echoed similar sentiments, criticizing some of the speakers for insincerity and political posturing.
Also Read: ODM Bigwigs Clash Over Raila’s Final Words on Supporting Ruto in 2027
Aside from Kingi, Siaya Governor James Orengo also used the occasion to accuse several leaders of betraying Raila Odinga while he was alive — particularly those who deserted him during his swearing-in as the “People’s President” in January 2018 at Uhuru Park.
“We must continue to say that Raila’s votes were stolen in 2017. This made us swear him in as the People’s President. And that’s the day I knew there are people who wear trousers and shouldn’t,” said Orengo.
During his tribute, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi thanked Raila Odinga for mentoring him and helping him ascend to various leadership positions in government.
“Today I am burying my political mentor. I am left with only God the Father,” said Kingi.
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