Julius Kiprop
- Raila Odinga defends backing the Adani Group deal despite its cancellation.
- Stresses Kenya’s development needs private investment, not just taxes.
- Blames criticism on investor competition and misunderstandings.
- President Ruto canceled the deal over alleged irregularities.
Despite the storm it stirred, Raila Odinga has no second thoughts about supporting the controversial Adani Group partnership. Speaking to Citizen TV, the former Prime Minister passionately defended Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), likening them to the fuel Kenya needs to drive its development agenda.
Why Taxes Aren’t Enough
Raila made it clear: relying on taxes alone to fund national projects is a dead-end. “The government cannot fund development projects using taxes only. It doesn’t work,” he said.
Adani Group’s proposal included a Ksh.260 billion plan to revamp Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and a Ksh.95 billion project to strengthen power transmission lines. However, these plans were derailed when President William Ruto axed the deals, citing alleged irregularities.
A Case of Jealous Rivals?
Raila isn’t buying the allegations against the Adani Group. He blamed the criticism on investor jealousy and misinformation. “The charges against Adani were all about competition and misconceptions,” Raila argued, shrugging off concerns of shady dealings.
His remarks followed accusations that Adani’s boss, Gautam Adani, had dished out Ksh.30 billion in bribes to secure contracts back in India—a scandal that added fuel to the fire.
Kenyans Split Over the Drama
The canceled deal had faced heavy opposition from the public, with many warning it could open the door to corruption. Yet Raila remains unfazed, firmly standing by his decision. “I have no regrets,” he stated, challenging Kenyans to see the bigger picture of development through investment.
Love it or hate it, Raila’s defense of the Adani deal has sparked debate about how Kenya should fund its future. While the partnership is now water under the bridge, the conversation about balancing public funds and private investment is far from over. Will Kenya find the right mix to move forward? Stay tuned!
