Raila Odinga “People’s Inauguration”
Nairobi, Kenya, January, 2018
Documenting the socio-political mobilization and civic expression during the symbolic 'People's Inauguration' in Kenya. This reportage analyzes the intersections of political polarization, community resilience, and the public demand for democratic and constitutional accountability.
On January 30, 2018, Raila Odinga held a symbolic “inauguration” at Uhuru Park in Nairobi, declaring himself the “People’s President” in defiance of the official election results.
Thousands of supporters gathered from across the city, many arriving from informal settlements, chanting, waving branches, and carrying improvised symbols of resistance. The atmosphere was charged — part political rally, part protest, part collective act of defiance. The event unfolded under heavy tension. Riot police were deployed, and in some areas tear gas was used to disperse crowds.
