Kalonzo Accuses Raila of Betraying Kenyans Over Adani Airport Deal

A significant rift has emerged within Kenya's opposition ranks following the cancellation of a contentious airport concession agreement with India's Adani Group.

The disagreement centres on a proposed 30-year concession that would have granted the Adani Group, a multinational conglomerate, the rights to develop, operate, and manage Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The deal's abrupt termination has ignited a political firestorm, revealing contrasting viewpoints among prominent opposition figures. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga expressed his disappointment over the cancellation, warning that Kenya risks missing a critical opportunity to modernise its infrastructure and attract foreign investment.

Speaking at the National Executive Retreat on June 20, Raila said, "I was very disappointed when we were not able to move on with the airport contract." 

He argued that the political opposition that led to the project's collapse reflects a lack of foresight, potentially hindering Nairobi's aspirations to become a global economic hub. However, Raila's stance has faced strong criticism, notably from his Azimio coalition partner, Kalonzo Musyoka, who condemned the Adani proposal as a threat to Kenya's sovereignty. In a statement on X, Kalonzo voiced his dismay at Raila's position, stating, "I'm shocked that Raila Odinga regrets its cancellation. How can any patriotic Kenyan mourn the end of an agreement that would have compromised our critical infrastructure?"

Kalonzo, a former vice president, argued that the issue extends beyond mere economics, striking at the core of national independence. Musyoka explained that his legal challenges, alongside Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, were prompted by legal concerns surrounding the Adani Group and the opaque nature of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements.

"This wasn't just about a business deal; it was about preventing the handover of our critical infrastructure to individuals facing serious legal challenges internationally," Kalonzo said. He insisted that similar agreements "will never see the light of day in Kenya, not on our watch."

The Motorist Association of Kenya has also weighed in, accusing Raila of betraying public trust and calling for him to withdraw his support for the Adani venture. The association criticises the proliferation of PPP deals, raising concerns about accountability and national interests. 

"Every intelligent and patriotic Kenyan understands the danger posed by many of the Public-Private Partnership deals currently being pursued and sealed," the association stated publicly.