People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has voiced criticism about the government's handling of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's burial ceremony in Bondo, Siaya County.
Karua on Tuesday morning faulted President William Ruto's administration over its failure to recognise the presence of the United Opposition leaders at Odinga's final farewell ceremony.
According to the PLP leader, while the government recognised the presence of members of parliament and other dignitaries, it intentionally ignored her presence and that of her fellow opposition principals.
Besides Karua, other opposition leaders who also attended Raila's burial included Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, DAP-Kenya's Eugene Wamalwa and Governor George Natembeya.
Speaking during an interview on Spice FM, Karua acknowledged the government's efforts to grant Odinga a state burial but questioned why she was not allowed to speak despite being the deceased's running mate in the 2022 polls.
"Saying I wasn’t given ample time at Raila Odinga’s burial is an understatement; I wasn’t given any time at all. It’s fine that the regime gave him a state burial, but wrong to try to own him while excluding others, especially the opposition," Karua said.
She added, "Kenya, by definition, is a multi-party state. Both at the Nyayo Stadium and in Bondo, there should have been an official recognition of opposition if time does not allow speeches."
Karua maintained that Ruto's administration stood on the opposite side of what the former Prime Minister believed in and was determined to bury his legacy.
The former Justice Minister made the remarks, despite Deputy President Kithure Kindiki recognising Kalonzo and allowing him to address mourners at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology. Kindiki, who served as the MC, said Kalonzo was given the nod to speak by Odinga's family, and he would speak on behalf of the opposition.
During the interview, Karua also expressed her interest in vying for the country's top seat, the presidency, adding that she had already been granted a go-ahead by her PLP party.
Karua reiterated that she was focused on strategising her political future rather than concentrating on the missed opportunities.
"There is an election coming up in 2027, and therefore, there is a chance for me to become the Chief Executive of Kenya, that is, the President. I have already declared my intention and received the go-ahead from PLP," she noted.
The PLP leader, who was Odinga's running mate in the 2022 General Elections, has in recent months been critical of Ruto's administration, accusing it of incompetence and neglecting the needs of Kenyans.
