Cherargei questions Winnie Odinga’s EALA record, says respect for Raila won her vote
By Kiprono Keileb, January 27, 2026Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has questioned the performance and public conduct of Winnie Odinga as Kenya’s representative to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), saying his decision to support her appointment in 2022 was driven by respect for ODM leader Raila Odinga rather than personal persuasion or lobbying.
In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Cherargei raised concerns about accountability, political conduct, and the role of EALA representatives at a time when scrutiny of public office holders remains high.
Cherargei raised concerns over the visibility and impact of Kenya’s representatives at regional bodies, including EALA, which sits in Arusha, Tanzania. The senator framed his comments around the period immediately after the 2022 General Election, noting the political context at the time and his expectations of those entrusted with regional representation. His remarks also touch on internal political dynamics within ODM and broader questions of responsibility to the public.
Cherargei explained the circumstances under which he voted for Winnie Odinga, placing emphasis on timing, political goodwill, and respect for party leadership rather than personal engagement.
“In 2022, immediately after the general elections i voted for Winnie Odinga to represent our country kenya in the East Africa legislative Assembly (EALA) in Arusha, Tanzania; yet she didn’t even lobby me to vote for her but it was out of respect of Raila Odinga, whom I voted for her plus remember there was no broad-based government by then,” the statement reads.
The senator then shifted his focus to accountability and public conduct, arguing that holders of regional offices should be open to scrutiny and avoid actions he described as unnecessary distractions. He suggested that questions should be asked about achievements at EALA and warned against conduct that could undermine party unity or leadership.
Cherargei further called for accountability and criticised what he described as political posturing.
“She should be asked, as our EALA Mp representative for our country, as part of accountability. This unnecessary political posturing, distractions and exaggerated self-importance syndrome she must stop, including undermining his uncle ODM party leader Senator Oburu Odinga,” Cherargei wrote.
EALA plays a key role in the East African Community, handling legislation, oversight, and regional integration matters affecting member states, including Kenya. Representatives are expected to advance national interests while contributing to regional cooperation. Cherargei’s remarks reflect a growing public expectation that elected and nominated leaders, whether at home or in regional institutions, clearly communicate their work and remain accountable to Kenyans.
The comments are likely to stir debate within political circles and among the public, especially around the balance between party loyalty, individual responsibility, and transparency in regional representation.