The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has faced sharp criticism from Kenyan netizens following his swift condolences to the family of former chief and respected Kaya elder, Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro — a move that has reignited public outrage over his delayed response to the death of a young Kenyan blogger, Albert Ojwang.
Mzee Mung’aro, who was also the father of Kilifi Governor Gideon Maitha Mung’aro, passed away recently. In a tribute shared on his official X account, Raila praised the late Mung’aro as “a fearless defender of the rights of native communities at the Coast, especially the Mijikenda.”
“I am saddened by the news that Ex-Chief Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro has passed on. He is the father to HE Hon. Gideon Maitha Mung’aro, the Governor of Kilifi County,” he stated
In his condolence message, the ODM leader described Mzee Mung’aro as a visionary figure who embodied the spirit of love, unity, and cultural pride among the people of the greater Gede community in Kilifi County.
“Mzee Mung’aro senior was a visionary man and embodied the spirit of love and unity of the people of the greater Gede community in Kilifi County.”
“On behalf of my family, the ODM fraternity and on my own behalf, I wish to extend heartfelt condolences to Governor Mung’aro, the entire Mung’aro family, the people of Kilifi County and the entire Coast region for the loss. May God grant you peace and strength during this difficult time of mourning.”
However, Raila’s message sparked immediate backlash from Kenyans online who questioned his silence and lack of urgency in addressing the controversial death of Albert Ojwang — a young digital activist who died in police custody under suspicious circumstances.
Kenyans didn’t mince their words. Under Raila’s condolence post, several users expressed disappointment and frustration, accusing the opposition leader of prioritizing political elites over ordinary citizens.
A user by the name James Kenyansa wrote: “Raila, you’re a betrayal which I ever imagined. This broad-based government has tarnished your legacy.”
Another user, Bishop, sarcastically added, “When it comes to political class, we rush to give condolences… The rest can wait. Call me fraud and I’ll accept.”
User Calget pointed out the disparity: “Another reason to understand why a common citizen doesn’t matter to you ‘Baba’. Condolences to Mung’aro family sent ASAP unlike Albert’s family.”
From the Nyanza region where Ojwang hailed, a user by the name Donald posted: “This came too soon, while the death of our son from our region took almost a week.”
And in one of the most biting remarks, Charlie Mumbo wrote: “If you want to get a condolence from Mzee, please come from a prominent family or at least die of natural causes. Albert Ojwang ni mtoto wa tajiri gani?”
Despite Raila releasing a statement on the sudden death of Blogger Ojwang’, Kenyans on X have condemned his delay as compared to how fast he sent his condolences to former chief Mzee Mung’aro.
The backlash reflects a growing sentiment among many Kenyans who feel that political leaders only respond promptly to tragedies when the victims are politically or socially prominent.
