Wamae weighs in on ‘political orphans’ narrative after Raila’s death
By Joel Masibo, October 20, 2025Economic democracy advocate Justina Wamae has weighed in on the viral narrative of ‘political orphans’ and their future after the death of Kenya’s most influential politician, the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Odinga, the former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader, is famed for grooming hundreds of political leaders for decades, many of whom confessed to his immense contributions in their respective political careers during his state burial in his Bondo home, Siaya County, on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
One among many politicians who testified to Raila Odinga’s role in their game of politics was Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohame, who admitted that Raila’s demise has left a void in the lives of many political leaders, both in government and in the opposition.
Political orphans
Junet Mohamed said it is true he is left as a political orphan in Raila’s death, but many more are sailing in the same ship. ” I have heard people saying that Junet Mohamed is now a political orphan after Raila Odinga died; it is true, and we are many, even those in the opposition seeking relevance by abusing his name. We are so many, and I am even seeking to be their chairman,” the lawmaker said amid laughter from mourners.
On her part, Justina Wamae has questioned the political survival of politicians who depend on the influence of political giants in the country, shortly after Junet Mohamed’s declaration.
The demerits of holding on to someone else’s trousers/skirts for political survival. With the latest development of natural attrition, Kenyans are talking about political orphans. Are you a casualty? If the big man or woman chooses their own survival, you are left with egg on your face. Case in time: “Hapa hakuna mkate nusu! ” Siku hizi hamuongei,” she said.
She also wondered about the future of supporters of President William Ruto if he will shift camp and seek his re-election on an ODM ticket in the 2027 general election.
”Now that they are saying that Rice will seek reelection on a Chungwa ticket, I wonder where his soldiers in Muranga, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, etc, will go to? Clearly, they are political orphans in waiting. As always, I choose the side of IDEOLOGY, POLICY, PRINCIPLES and NOT personalities,” Wamae added.
Meanwhile, Justina Wamae’s sentiments come at a moment when a section of ODM leaders have openly declared to back President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027, while others, led by party Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, have a contrary opinion.