Stop with the images of Raila as Pope, MP Barasa tells Kenyans
He further noted that Raila, being a distinguished and influential figure in Kenya, should always be accorded the respect and honor he deserves.
Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has called on Kenyans to show respect to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in light of the recent passing of Pope Francis.
Taking to his official social media platforms on Monday, April 21, 2025, Barasa criticized the circulation of digitally altered images portraying Raila in papal garments, describing the act as inappropriate.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) legislator emphasized the importance of using online platforms to foster unity and support nation-building efforts, rather than spreading misinformation or divisive content.
He further noted that Raila, being a distinguished and influential figure in Kenya, should always be accorded the respect and honor he deserves.
Barasa has expressed strong disapproval over the circulation of altered images showing him dressed in papal garments, stating that such actions are highly disrespectful, not just towards the ODM party leader, but also to the Catholic Church and the broader Christian community.
“I humbly urge all Kenyans, especially Wamunyoro disciples, to use these spaces as tools for unity and nation-building, not division and propaganda. Rt. Hon. @RailaOdinga is a prominent and respected leader in our country who deserves to be treated with dignity," said Barasa.
"The circulation of edited images depicting him in the Pope’s attire is deeply disrespectful—not only to him but also to the Catholic Church and the entire Christian fraternity. As we stand in solidarity with the Catholic Church and the global Christian community, mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis."
After the death of Pope Francis, some Kenyans online began sharing altered images of Raila Odinga dressed in papal robes, accompanied by humorous captions implying that the former prime minister was among those eyeing the vacant position at the Vatican.
Interestingly, these manipulated images first surfaced back in February 2025 when news broke of the Pope’s illness.
At that time, Raila had just lost his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship to Djibouti’s Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.
In response, some of his critics appeared to mock him, suggesting sarcastically that he should now consider running for the papacy instead.
Pope Francis, the first pope from Latin America and the first non-European to lead the Catholic Church in over 1,200 years, passed away on Monday after a long struggle with pneumonia.