Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga is facing criticism online over what many Kenyans perceive as a delayed reaction to the death of young blogger Albert Ojwang, despite his prompt tribute to another recent passing.

Raila took to his official X account to express condolences following the death of former chief and revered Kaya elder Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro, father of Kilifi Governor Gideon Maitha Mung’aro.

In his message, Raila hailed the elder Mung’aro as a brave advocate for indigenous rights at the Coast, particularly among the Mijikenda.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Ex-Chief Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro, father to H.E. Governor Gideon Maitha Mung’aro of Kilifi County,” read part of Raila’s post.

He went on to remember the late elder as a unifying and visionary leader who championed love, cohesion, and cultural heritage within the Gede community in Kilifi.

However, his failure to issue a timely statement regarding the untimely death of Ojwang, a digital activist and ODM supporter, sparked a flurry of backlash, with critics questioning the silence and perceived selective mourning by the opposition leader.

Odinga’s recent condolence message to Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro over the death of his father, Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro, has drawn sharp reactions online, with Kenyans accusing the ODM leader of showing preferential concern for political elites while sidelining ordinary citizens.

In a statement shared on his official X account, Raila mourned the late elder Mung’aro as a visionary leader and a defender of indigenous rights, especially among the Mijikenda community.

“On behalf of my family, the ODM fraternity, and myself, I extend heartfelt condolences to Governor Mung’aro, the entire Mung’aro family, the people of Kilifi County, and the Coast region,” he stated, adding prayers for peace and strength during the period of mourning.

However, the post sparked an immediate uproar, with many users questioning why Raila was quick to acknowledge Mzee Mung’aro’s death while taking considerably longer to speak on the controversial death of Albert Ojwang a young blogger and ODM supporter who died in police custody under unclear circumstances.

Many Kenyans flooded the comment section of Raila’s tribute, accusing him of turning a blind eye to injustices faced by ordinary youth.

“This came too soon, while the death of our son from our region took almost a week,” noted one user from Nyanza, Ojwang’s home region.

Another user, James Kenyansa, lamented: “Raila, you’re the betrayal I never imagined. This government has destroyed your legacy.” Others, like Charlie Mumbo, mocked the disparity in attention: “If you want Baba to mourn you, make sure you’re from a prominent family. Who was Albert Ojwang’s father?”