Raila takes holiday abroad, sparks debate online
Kenya's former Prime Minister Raila Odinga (centre) smiles during one of the photo sessions on his vacation. Courtesy photo
Former Prime Minister and opposition leader Raila Odinga announced on Saturday, August 23, 2025, that he was taking a short break outside Kenya with family and friends to ‘recharge’.
The post, shared on his official Facebook page, quickly gained traction online, drawing 9,400 likes and over 50 shares within minutes.
Supporters reacted with warmth and encouragement.
Jaramogi Allan Ofula postulated, “Both brothers out of the country at the same time… coincidence or a well-timed chess move… mmmh… House of cards. Enjoy your holiday Jakom!”
Barikiwa Austine urged him to, “Recharge and tell us your next move baba,” while Juma Silas humorously offered, “Enjoy Baba, you have been very busy the whole of your life fighting for Kenya, I authorise my taxes to pay for your holiday.”
Not all reactions were positive. Veronica Mutiso quipped, “Time to recharge ama mmeenda kukopa (or you have gone to borrow) Japanese?”
Meanwhile, some comments leaned into political theatre, with Inspekta Kiprono writing, “Yes, then after landing we occupy Kamukunji grounds that Wamunyoro failed,” a tongue-in-cheek nod to political rallies.
Mr Odinga’s decision to take time off follows six(6) months of intense political engagement.
He has been active on several fronts, participating in national dialogue on governance and reforms, spearheading a campaign for the AU Commission chairmanship, holding rallies, engaging international leaders, and making strategic party appearances that kept him in the spotlight.
His retreat, though brief, arrives at a moment when speculation on succession politics and strategic maneuvering is high, making fans and critics alike read into the timing of this break.
