It was a dark day in Kenyan history. Raila Odinga, a young fearless politician, was captured and thrown in custody without trial. He was accused by the government of treason. He was uncertain, feared and could lose everything, at the age of only 30! This was when his boldness was tested, his future was made and the course of Kenya politics was altered permanently. This day is still remembered by many as a turning point, not only to Raila, but also, to the struggle of democracy in Kenya.

Background

Raila Odinga was born in a family of leaders. His father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, was one of the original vice presidents of Kenya and a major personality in Kenya’s independence struggle. Raila was brought up to understand politics, leadership and the need to do the right thing. By 1980s, he was a powerful reformist and democrat. He contributed to the abolition of injustice and he insisted that the government should observe the rights of the ordinary Kenyans. His boldness was his popularity, and his unpopularity at the same time.

The Detention

Raila was accused of treason by the government of President Daniel arap Moi in 1982. He was put on arrest and held without trial. He has spent months in jail in deplorable conditions. He was not aware of what will be the fate of him and his family and supporters were anxious about his life. Raila was forced to be tough even in the midst of threats. This was not mere punishment in this detention. It was supposed to threaten him and any other person who dared to air his opinion against the government.

Impact on Raila Odinga

Raila became different since he got detained. It made him even stronger in his determination to combat injustice and democracy. He got to know how to be patient, brave, and how to be resilient. It was also this experience that made him relate with a large number of other Kenyans who were languishing under a government that did not respect their rights. His imprisonment turned into the emblem of the fight against the freedom. He was perceived by people as a leader who was capable of withstanding pain and proceeding with the struggle of the people.

Lessons from the Moment

• This painful episode educates about a number of valuable lessons:
• Even with high risks involved, courage is important.
• An act of being just may be a sacrifice to one.
• Strong leaders can be formed by the difficult experiences.
• Family and community support might be used to surmount challenges.
• Suffering can motivate other people to engage in a change battle.

Legacy of the Detention

The arrest of Raila Odinga was something that was unforgettable. It was the start of his lifetime struggle on the democracy issue in Kenya. Upon release, he still led the activities of multiparty democracy and political reforms. To a great extent, what he underwent in prison influences many of his actions and decisions today. This is one of the moments that Kenyans still remember as the one that made them remember that during the most hopeless moments, hope and courage and persistence could transform the future.

Conclusion

Raila Odinga detention was not just a personal tragedy by being detained without trial. It was the time when the soul of a leader and spirit of a nation were tried. It transformed him, made him solid, and motivated millions. It is only in the course of this time that Raila proved to be a brave leader as in all his sufferings, he stood his ground and did what was right. The day that transformed everything to Raila Odinga might never be forgotten in the world.