Few figures in Kenyan politics inspire as much debate, admiration, and controversy as Raila Odinga. Referred to mockingly and sometimes reverently as “Mganga” (witch doctor) or “Mchawi,” Raila’s journey is one of unbelievable survival and constant reinvention.
But what has earned him this almost supernatural reputation?
Let’s dive into the key moments that define Raila’s extraordinary political life.
1. Detention Without Trial (1982–1988, 1989–1991)
Raila was detained for nearly nine years without trial following the 1982 attempted coup against President Moi, which he was allegedly linked to. He endured:
- Solitary confinement
- Harsh prison conditions
- No formal charges
Yet when released, Raila didn’t fade into obscurity. He emerged stronger, continuing to fight for democracy and reform. That’s rare in Kenyan politics—and the beginning of his mythical status.
2. Multiple Election Defeats That Made Him Stronger
Raila has lost the presidential race five times: 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022.
Most notably:
- 2007: A disputed loss led to post-election violence. Over 1,000 people died. Raila became Prime Minister in a peace deal.
- 2017: The Supreme Court nullified the election results—a first in Africa. Raila boycotted the rerun.
- 2022: Despite backing from President Uhuru Kenyatta, Raila lost to William Ruto. IEBC results declared Ruto the winner.
Most people would give up. Raila doesn’t.
3. Swearing Himself In as “The People’s President”
After boycotting the 2017 election rerun, Raila made global headlines by swearing himself in at Uhuru Park.
- TV stations were shut down
- Supporters were arrested
- Passports revoked
Raila? Untouched. He later shocked the nation with the “Handshake” with Uhuru Kenyatta.
4. Surviving Alleged Assassination Attempts
Raila has survived:
- Several alleged assassination plots during Moi and Kibaki’s eras
- In 2022, a helicopter he was in was attacked in Uasin Gishu
Yet he continues to walk unshaken—a fact many view as near-supernatural.
5. Betrayals from Close Allies
Politics is brutal, but Raila has been betrayed by almost everyone:
- William Ruto—his former ally and now President
- Kalonzo Musyoka—withdrew support at critical times
- Uhuru Kenyatta—endorsed him in 2022, but many feel he didn’t deliver
Despite this, Raila rebuilds alliances and keeps his supporters motivated.
6. Deep Personal Losses
- In 2015, he lost his son Fidel Odinga under mysterious circumstances
- He’s battled serious health issues requiring treatment abroad
Even so, Raila keeps a public presence, travels extensively, and speaks powerfully.
Why Do They Call Him “Mganga” or “Mchawi”?
It’s partly insult, partly awe. Here’s what the nickname reflects:
- His unmatched ability to survive in toxic politics
- A cult-like following that never fades
- Bouncing back from political and personal disasters
- His strategic reinventions, often seen as prophetic
Man or Myth?
Raila Odinga is no ordinary politician. Many say he has walked through political fire—and lived to fight again. From dungeons to presidential debates, betrayals to handshakes, Raila is both a man of history and a mystery.
Whether you support or oppose him, one thing is clear: Raila is a phenomenon, not just a politician.
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