Following the tragic passing of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, conversations have intensified across Kenya about what could have been — particularly the historic possibility of Martha Karua becoming the country’s first female President.
Political observers and social media users alike have reflected on the 2022 general election, where Raila Odinga and Martha Karua ran on the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya ticket. Had Raila clinched the presidency in that fiercely contested race, Karua — his running mate — would now have ascended to the highest office in the land as Kenya’s 6th President.
In the wake of Odinga’s death, many Kenyans have expressed renewed admiration for Karua’s resilience, integrity, and long-standing partnership with the late opposition leader.
“If Baba had won in 2022, Kenya would have witnessed its first woman President today,” one supporter wrote online, capturing the sentiment of many who saw the Raila–Karua ticket as a symbol of hope and reform.
A Symbolic Partnership
Raila Odinga’s decision to choose Martha Karua as his deputy in 2022 marked a major milestone in Kenyan politics. It was widely praised as a progressive step toward gender inclusivity and women’s empowerment in leadership.
Karua, a seasoned lawyer and former Minister of Justice, was seen as a fearless advocate for democracy and rule of law — traits that perfectly complemented Raila’s decades-long fight for freedom and accountability.
Together, they formed what many believed to be one of Kenya’s most credible and reform-driven political alliances. Their campaign promised transparency, judicial independence, and economic transformation.
Tributes and Reflection
As Kenyans continue to mourn Raila’s death, Karua herself has remained silent publicly, though sources close to her say she is “deeply devastated” by the loss of her political ally and mentor.
Analysts note that had Raila lived to achieve his presidential dream, Karua’s leadership style and reform agenda would have had a profound influence on the governance of the nation.
“Raila’s passing is not just the loss of a political giant, but also the end of a possible era that could have redefined Kenya’s political landscape,” said political analyst Dr. Martin Mbaya.
A Legacy of Unfulfilled Promise
For millions of Kenyans, Raila Odinga’s name is synonymous with the struggle for democracy and social justice. His political partnership with Karua represented a shared dream — one that envisioned a Kenya governed by fairness, inclusivity, and accountability.
As the nation grieves, many are left wondering what Kenya’s future would look like today if Raila Odinga had taken the oath of office back in 2022 — and Martha Karua had become the first woman to hold the title of President of the Republic of Kenya.
