Raila face mounting backlash for supporting Adani deals in the country
Kenyans on social media have slammed the former Prime Minister over his sentiments expressing support for the controversial lucrative government tenders awarded to the Indian conglomerate, Adani Group through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement among them planned leasing of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to the Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL) and the Sh96billion power line expansion deal each spanning 30 years.
The Orange Democratic Party leader has been harshly criticized by a section of Kenyans.
Some regretted having voted for him in the past five elections where he was vying for president while others were bitter for having trusted him to save the country.
“I was wrong to believe in this Man Raila Odinga. I wish I could recall my vote.” Njeru Macharia wrote.
“Whoever voted for William Ruto, Raila Odinga has just vindicated you by defending Adani. Don’t apologise to Azimio voters. Kenya was damned if we did or didn’t. “Eng Nyakisera said.
“What happened to Baba Raila Odinga? The real Baba can’t support Adani. No way.” Naomi Waithira stated.
“When Raila Odinga was Prime Minister 2008-2013 Adani had not even started operating airports in India yet he claims they had expressed interest in JKIA? Nelson Amenya questioned.
Despite Kenyans questioning the processes leading up to Adani’s potential deal, the ODM leader yesterday defended the company’s credibility, citing firsthand experience with their projects in India.
The former premier described a trip to Gujarat, where Adani had turned a swamp into a bustling port, power plant, and industrial hub.
He strongly defended the Adani Group, emphasizing the group’s track record and ongoing interest in Kenya, which dates back to 2010.
“Adani is a credible partner and reputable company. They have proven their capabilities in projects that surpass what we have seen in East Africa.” Raila said.
Businessman and Philanthropist Enock Opara opposed the former Prime Minister’s remarks regarding the Indian based multinational conglomerate involvement in Kenya’s critical infrastructure projects such as the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and the energy sector.
Opara opposed Odinga’s declaration supporting the Adani deals arguing they do not represent the country’s long-term interests.
“While Odinga has cited the company’s capacity based on its record in Gujarat and Mumbai, we must take into account the larger implications of such partnerships for Kenya’s long-term interests.” Opara said.
