In a reflective New Year’s message, Raila Odinga described 2024 as a year of immense challenges and profound lessons for the country.
Raila struck a tone of resilience and hope as he addressed the nation.
“The year that has just ended has been tough and dramatic. But it has also showcased our capacity to withstand existential problems and pull back from the brink as a nation,” Raila said in a statement posted on social media on January 1, 2025.
For Kenya, 2024 was marked by political tensions, economic struggles, and social unrest.
Raila stated that the past year demonstrated the resilience and determination of the people to maintain unity, regardless of the scale of the challenges faced.
“The year 2024 showcased our staying power and determination to preserve our oneness as a people, no matter the magnitude of the challenges,” he said.
Challenges persist into 2025
However, Raila cautioned that the issues that plagued 2024 are far from resolved.
“Many of the challenges of 2024 are crossing with us into 2025,” he noted, urging Kenyans to confront these difficulties with unity and dialogue.
“It is going to be upon us, as Kenyans, to decide whether to carry on, divided, bitter, and cursing into 2026, or to find a way of coming to the table, discussing our problems jointly, and agreeing on a mutual solution that secures our country,” Raila wrote.
His remarks resonate amidst ongoing debates about allegations of government corruption and the widening economic inequality in the country.
A call for unity
Raila’s message was both a reflection on the past and a call to action for the future.
He urged Kenyans to embrace a spirit of collaboration and set an example for the African continent.
“The choice is entirely ours,” he emphasized.
The veteran politician concluded his statement on a hopeful note, wishing all Kenyans a prosperous New Year.
“Wishing a happy new year 2025 to all Kenyans,” he wrote, encapsulating a vision of optimism tempered by the realities of the challenges ahead.
