A picture showing the destruction in the Mau forest.PHOTO/FILE

Politics around settlement in Mau Forest complex and prosecution of post-election violence suspects have conspired to box the most enigmatic Kenyan politician into a corner.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who is perceived as a politician with an indomitable spirit, has walked into a risky political mire from which he will be lucky to come out unscathed.

What transpires over the next few months will inform the future of the Orange Democratic Movement party, which he leads and his baton to the 2012 presidential contest.

On the issue of impunity, the more he pushes for prosecution of the violence suspects, the more he is reminded that youths — particularly those from the Rift Valley — fought because they were bitter over his “stolen victory.”

By calling for the trial of perpetrators of the violence — some of them believed to be senior ODM members — Mr Odinga is accused of “betraying” his supporters.

Events in the Tuesday Cabinet meeting capture Mr Odinga’s dilemma.