Five Cabinet Secretaries have revealed that their current positions in President William Ruto’s administration were secured through the direct intervention of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Speaking separately during the send-off of the late Raila Odinga’s legacy, on October 19, 2025, the CSs narrated how he identified, mentored, and strategically placed them in government, underscoring his far-reaching influence in shaping Kenya’s political alliances.

Mbadi leads emotional tributes

Treasury CS John Mbadi led the confessions during a public address in Homa Bay. “I’m happy that I never betrayed Raila Odinga. You gave me positions of leadership when nobody imagined that I could lead,” he said.

Mbadi recounted his political journey under Odinga’s guidance. “You made me assistant minister in your office, you made me the longest-serving chairman of your party ODM when you were alive, you made me minority leader, you made me minister of finance,” he reflected.

He acknowledged a crucial moment in his career: “Even when you told me I would not be the governor for Homa Bay county, I knew why you made that decision.” Affirming his loyalty, Mbadi said, “I have never betrayed you Baba. The only place we ever disagreed was on football — you supported Arsenal, and I supported Manchester United.”

Joho and Wandayi recount personal encounters

Mining CS Hassan Joho spoke in Mombasa, declaring unwavering loyalty to Raila. “I have never betrayed Raila akiwa hai, and I will not betray his cause in death,” he stated. He added, “Siwezi kuwa mahali ambapo Raila hakunipeleka. I was taken to Ruto’s government by Raila Odinga, and that is where I belong and will stay.”

Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi shared his encounter at a Nairobi meeting. “Baba visited me in my office at the ministry and told me to fully support the government. He said he had been in many political partnerships before, but he came to learn that President Ruto is sincere,” Wandayi revealed.

Oparanya and Askul credit Raila’s strategic guidance

Cooperatives and MSMEs Development CS Wycliffe Oparanya attributed his entire career to Raila. “Chochote nimepata ni Baba alinipa. He taught me that there are no permanent friends and enemies in politics, and that is why I have decided to take you to the government under William Ruto,” he said.

EAC CS Beatrice Askul shared her loyalty since 2002. “Kuanzia 2002 nilipoanza kupiga kura, sijawahi piga kura nje ya Raila Amolo Odinga,” she stated.

She recalled Raila’s call during cabinet appointments: “Wakati Raila aliniita siku ya mawaziri, akaniambia nataka wewe ujumuike uwe na mawaziri, nikaamua na nikasema Baba upendavyo ndio nitafanya.”

The testimonies highlight Odinga’s pivotal role in bridging political divides and shaping leadership within the broad-based government he helped craft.