Raila: Kenyans must decide the country’s path in 2025

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has urged Kenyans to take responsibility for determining the nation’s direction in the new year 2025.

In his New Year message, Raila emphasised that the future of Kenya lies in the hands of its people.

He noted that many of the challenges faced by the country in 2024 would extend into 2025, requiring strong determination from all Kenyans to overcome them.

“Many of the challenges of 2024 are crossing with us into 2025,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

“It is going to be upon us, as Kenyans, to decide whether to carry on, divided, bitter, and cursing into 2025, or to find a way of coming to the table, discussing our problems jointly and agreeing on a mutual solution that secures our country and provides a template for our beloved continent of Africa. The choice is entirely ours.”

Raila also reflected on the resilience shown by Kenyans throughout 2024, acknowledging that while the year had been tough, it demonstrated the country’s capacity to endure challenges.

“The year that has just ended has been tough and dramatic. But it has also showcased our capacity to withstand existential problems and pull back from the brink as a nation,” he said.

The message from the former Prime Minister comes as his bid to become the African Union Commission chair is set to face a critical test in an election scheduled for February. Since mid-year, Raila has steered away from local politics to focus on his candidacy to succeed outgoing Chairperson Moussa Faki.

Meanwhile, Raila’s party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), pledged to continue holding the government accountable in the New Year.

ODM’s Executive Director, Oduor Ong’wen, issued the New Year message on behalf of the party, reiterating the importance of unity in overcoming national challenges.

“As we look to 2025, we call upon all Kenyans to embrace hope and unity. The challenges we face can only be overcome if we stand together, putting the nation's interests above all else,” he said.

“ODM pledges to hold the government accountable while offering pragmatic solutions to the issues affecting our people.”

Ong’wen also reflected on the party’s achievements in 2024, noting that ODM had remained true to its principles of democracy, social justice, and inclusivity.

“Whether in championing justice, fighting for electoral reforms, or defending devolution, we have remained steadfast in our resolve to build a better Kenya,” he said.

He further highlighted ODM’s efforts to revitalise its grassroots structures through recent elections, which helped the party reconnect with its supporters and effectively articulate their aspirations.

“The role each of you plays, whether as a party member, supporter, or citizen who believes in our values, is invaluable,” Ong’wen added.

Acknowledging the challenges many Kenyans face, such as rising living costs, unemployment, and inequality, Ong’wen reiterated ODM’s commitment to improving the lives of all citizens.

“Many Kenyans continue to grapple with the rising cost of living, unemployment, and inequalities. ODM remains committed to working tirelessly to ensure every Kenyan has access to decent livelihoods, quality healthcare, and education,” he said.

As the country bids farewell to 2024, Ong’wen conveyed warm greetings on behalf of the ODM party and its Interim leader, Prof. Anyang Nyong’o, reflecting on the year as one of resilience, growth, and renewed determination.

“This year has been one of resilience, growth, and renewed determination as we navigated challenges and celebrated victories together as a movement and as a nation,” Ong’wen said.