Mama Ida Odinga has called on Kenyans, particularly young people, to embrace peace, tolerance and mutual respect, warning against turning political passion into a tool for violence against those with differing beliefs.
Speaking during the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Ida urged Kenyans not to harm one another over ideological or political differences.
“Don’t harm one another because they don’t believe in what you believe in,” she passionately appealed.
Ida also challenged young people to honour Raila’s legacy by practising tolerance and respecting those who hold opposing views, cautioning them against allowing their passion for the late opposition leader to fuel hostility.
“To the young people, do not let your passion turn into a weapon. Do not let your love for Baba turn into a weapon,” she advised.
She further urged Raila’s supporters to emulate how he treated people he disagreed with, insisting that genuine love for the late leader should be reflected in peaceful engagement rather than confrontation.
“If you truly love Baba Raila Odinga, you should treat people you disagree with the way Baba treated the people he disagreed with,” Ida stated.
Her message comes as Kenyans reflect on Raila’s political legacy, with calls for unity, peaceful coexistence and respect for divergent opinions taking centre stage during the anniversary commemorations.
Ida’s appeal serves as a reminder to the youth and political supporters that honouring Raila’s legacy requires upholding the values of tolerance, dialogue and peaceful coexistence, even amid deep political differences.
