Nyandarua Senator Defends Kenyans Who Celebrated Raila’s AUC Loss
Nyandarua Senator John Methu has defended Kenyans who cheered the February 15, 2025, defeat of Raila Odinga in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
Speaking during a Senate session on Thursday, February 20, 2025, Methu clarified that the celebrations were not about Odinga’s loss but rather President William Ruto’s failure, as he was the key force behind Odinga’s candidacy.
“Kenyans were not rejoicing over Raila Odinga’s defeat. Some were simply happy because they saw it as a loss for President Ruto, who championed Odinga’s bid,” Methu stated.
“It is only fair that we celebrate when Ruto is unhappy.”
Condemning Arrests Over Heckling
Methu, who was recently removed as chair of the Senate’s Environment and Natural Resources Committee, also criticized the government for arresting 48 youths who heckled Ruto during a rally in Isiolo on February 7, 2025.
The senator argued that the young men were merely voicing their dissatisfaction and did not deserve to be detained.
“People have different ways of showing discontent,” Methu said. “You can’t dictate how they feel during a rally in their own area. If they want to cheer or jeer, that’s their right.”
His remarks came as Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo urged the government to overhaul the county’s security apparatus, citing escalating disturbances.
Rising Drug Trade Fuels Political Unrest
Dullo also raised concerns over the increasing drug trade in Isiolo, warning that proceeds from narcotics were fueling political instability.
She called on the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) to investigate the crisis and urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to probe leaders suspected of involvement in the illicit trade.
“The Inspector General of Police must restructure Isiolo’s security system to restore order,” Dullo insisted. “Drug trafficking is on the rise, with narcotics being sold openly in broad daylight.”
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi echoed similar concerns, calling on the government to take firm action against those instigating chaos at public rallies.
Nyandarua Senator Defends Kenyans Who Celebrated Raila’s AUC Loss