Fidel Odinga. Photo/File
LEADERS across the political divide on Sunday set aside their differences and united in mourning Fidel Odinga.
Fidel, the first-born son of Cord and ODM leader Raila Odinga, was found dead by his wife at his Karen home early Sunday morning.
President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President William Ruto, Cord co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka, Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero, Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko, UDF party leader Musalia Mudavadi and a host of MPs said Fidel’s death was untimely.
In his message to the Odinga family, President Kenyatta said that it was with a deep sense of loss, sorrow and shock that he learnt of the death of the former Prime Minister’s son.
Kenyatta said Fidel’s passing has robbed the country of a promising young man whose contribution to nation building will be missed by all.
“This is a big loss not only to you and your family but the entire country,” Uhuru said.
Ruto said that he is saddened by the death of Fidel because the loss of a child is a deeply traumatic event for any parent.
"I feel the pain the Odinga family is undergoing and we pray that the Lord will guide them," Ruto said.
Kalonzo and Mudavadi said that they were saddened by the loss.
Kalonzo said Kenyans are now asking many questions after the deaths of Mutula Kilonzo, Otieno Kajwang’ and now Fidel Odinga.
Governor Kidero and his wife Susan sent their sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to the Odinga family.
Sonko said he is saddened by the death of a promising young man, which has robbed the country of a hero.
Other leaders who sent their condolences included Embakasi East MP John Ogutu Omondi, Lang’ata MP Joash Olum, Kibra MP Ken Okoth, Senators Beatrice Elachi, Daisy Kanaiza, Zipporah Kittony and Nairobi County Assembly Speaker Alex ole Magelo.
"I join the rest of the country in mourning Fidel, a young man with so much promise. To Raila and Mama Ida, poleni sana," Kittony said.
On his part, Magelo said people that depart from this earth never truly leave for they are still alive in the hearts and minds of the living.
"Through us they live on. My sincerest condolences to the Odinga family for the loss of their son Fidel. Our prayers are with you," Magelo said.
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